Horses and soldiers from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment enjoyed a well-deserved trip to the beach to cool off to conclude their three-week summer training camp.

Photographers SSgt Donald Todd, PO Belinda Alker and Corporal Christian Delice captured stunning photos and drone video of the regiment on the beach ride at West Beach, Hayling Island, on Thursday (3 July).

Watch drone footage of Household Cavalry horses and soldiers on the beach in the video below

“After welcoming four world leaders to Windsor, protecting The King at the state opening of parliament and a spectacular King’s birthday parade, a day in the sea felt very well deserved,” said the spokesperson.

“These horses face the noise and chaos of London every single day – sirens, crowds, and all the unexpected delights of city life, so building their confidence through exposure to new environments is essential.

“The beach – with its shifting sands, crashing waves, screeching gulls, and overexcited children – is the perfect testing ground. For the youngest horses, it was their very first encounter with the sea. Watching them find their feet in the waves, and seeing the bonds between horse and rider grow stronger in the process, is what makes this training so valuable.”

The spokesperson added that soldiers and horses took part in a programme of “innovation, fieldcraft and mounted operational experimentation” on Longmoor training area during the summer camp, before the ride across the beach.

“The activity showcases the versatility, fitness and partnership of horse and rider in a dramatically different environment, demonstrating the adaptability that lies at the heart of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment’s approach to training,” said the spokesperson.

“The beach ride provides a fitting finale to a camp focused on pushing traditional cavalry skills into new operational contexts while celebrating the unique capabilities of the military horse.”

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“If the terrain demands it, the cavalry will be ready”.

This is the message from the British Army, as it explains why it is “bringing back the war horse”.

Inspired by a new initiative in Estonia, the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment added a mounted navigation exercise to its annual Princess Elizabeth Cup competition, an event that evaluates state ceremonial turnout and riding ability.

“For hundreds of years, horses and soldiers were inseparable,” an Army spokesperson said.

“From ancient battlefields to the muddy trenches of the First World War, the cavalry charged into history together. Then came tanks, armoured vehicles and helicopters – and horses were left behind.

“But here’s the thing: they might be making a comeback.”

In Estonia, a group of volunteers including former soldiers have formed a mounted unit in the Estonian defence league.

“Their idea is simple but bold: in thick forests and boggy ground where heavy military vehicles get stuck, horses can go anywhere,” the spokesperson said.

“Estonia’s army uses some seriously impressive kit; Swedish armoured fighting vehicles and Finnish all-terrain carriers. But this volunteer group believes that sometimes the oldest solution is the smartest one.

“After testing their idea on exercises in southern Estonia, they say horses can outperform armoured vehicles in certain tough terrains. It sounds mad. But the British Army was listening.

“Inspired by the Estonian experiment, the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment recently added something brand new to their annual Princess Elizabeth Cup competition: a mounted navigation exercise.”

Soldiers had to navigate, on horses, across the “challenging terrain” of Barossa training area, at the the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, with only compasses and maps.

“It was pretty rough at the start trying to find my bearings,” said 21-year-old Trooper Newell. “It’s a completely different experience being mounted on a horse. There was thick gorse, deep mud and dense woodland.

“The horses loved it, but navigating with just a map and a compass in that terrain was tough.”

“The 77-year-old Princess Elizabeth Cup competition has been updated to reflect what the modern army actually needs,” the spokesperson said. “Soldiers are now tested on fitness, marksmanship, navigation and combat resilience – not just their riding and ceremonial skills.

“Nobody is suggesting cavalry horses will replace tanks. But pack animals have already been used by allied forces in the mountains of Afghanistan and in the Balkans in recent times. The lesson from Ukraine and the Middle East is clear: modern warfare demands creativity, adaptability and, sometimes, going back to basics. If the terrain demands it, the cavalry will be ready.”

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Tributes have been paid to Household Cavalry drum horse Juno, who has died aged 13 following a short illness.

A statement from the Household Cavalry on 20 April said that Juno had been taken ill recently and that despite treatment, she passed away that morning.

The 18.3hh Shire mare was called Dyfed Willa-Rose by her breeders Dyfed Shire Horses. After completing her training, she was named Drum Horse Juno by Her Majesty Queen Camilla, and carried the rank of major.

A tribute from the Household Cavalry said that Juno “took to her training with impeccable grace and patience”.

“She became a trusted mount, be it either riding on the streets of London or the fields in Norfolk,” it said.

“With her new name and rank, Juno became one of the most iconic horses on The King’s birthday parade.”

It added: “Her signature markings and her dappled coat made her look every part the treasured ceremonial mount. Upon her shoulders sat the silver drums that she carried with dignity and pride. She proudly strode along the Mall with the drums and bands around her and loved her job and her role deeply.

“The small team that cared for Juno loved her wholeheartedly. She was adored due to her calm nature under saddle and in the stable. Juno adored the fuss and attention she received by the lucky commuters that managed to give her a quick pat on their way to work.

“A gentle giant that led the regiment on parade and has left an empty stable and a sadness in the hearts of all that knew her.”

In 2021, Dyfed Shire Horses owner Huw Murphy told H&H it was a “source of pride and privilege” to have bred a horse deemed “good enough” to be a drum horse with the cavalry.

Dyfed Shire Horses was among those to pay tribute to the mare after her death.

“Willa-Rose left the farm to join the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment in 2021 and on 17 June 2023 became the first female Shire to perform at Trooping the Colour in 360 years,” said a tribute from the stud.

“Willa-Rose followed the path of her uncle Celt, known as Drum Horse Major Mercury who we sold to the cavalry in 2008, and also Apollo in 2019. Juno returned to the farm on two occasions in 2024 and 2025 and was welcomed by many of her fans.”

The stud has requested that she be laid to rest alongside Mercury on their farm in Pembrokeshire.

“She was our Rose and she is now with the stars,” the tribute added.

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The belief that war horses are no longer used in battle is not entirely true. The first evidence of horses in warfare dates back to some time around 1500–3000BC, with warriors fighting on horseback from around 900BC. And while battle cavalry was a still crucial element of the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War in the 19th century, by the 20th century, more mechanic forms of attack began to prevail.

By World War I, horses were no match for tank warfare, and around eight million horses died – nearly half a million of them British. More hearteningly, British Army Veterinary Corps successfully treated over half a million horses during the World War I. A few cavalry units were still in action in World War II. However, they were more commonly used for transporting supplies and troops rather than the previous role in the thick of battle as chargers.

While horses have no place in modern Western warfare – as witnessed in Ukraine – in developing countries, they are still used by armed fighters, and indeed the US Army special forces used local horses in battle in the 2001 invasion of Afghanistan. However, for the main part, mercifully, a “war horse’s” role is reserved for historical reenactments, mounted patrol and ceremonial or educational purposes.

What breed is a war horse?

War horses came in many shapes and sizes, and were allocated roles according to their physical capabilities. Much like the men who were conscripted to fight, civilian horses that were fit and strong enough to help fight the cause were enlisted. We are familiar with the sight of a relative lightweight breed as war horses – similar to a thoroughbred/warmblood, but this is probably due to the fact that the most famous ones were ridden by the noblemen, such as the Duke of Wellington’s Copenhagen, and therefore commemorated forever as statues.

The heavier draught horses, such as Percherons, Friesians, Shires and Clydesdales, were used for pulling wagons with cannons or artillery, or transporting troops and supplies. These colder-blooded horses were more disposed to remain calm in battle with the noise of gunfire. Joey, the fictitious war horse from the eponymous book by Michael Morpurgo, was this sort – a plough horse who was used to pull carts with wounded soldiers and infantry guns.

Middleweight horses – similar to the modern warmblood – were used both to pull wagons and to carry heavily armoured soldiers in battle, but they lacked the speed and endurance of the lighter cavalry. They were also used for reconnaissance missions, supply, raiding and communication.

The lighter, faster types, such as thoroughbreds, Arabs, Barbs and Akhal Tekes were used for cavalry charges and warfare requiring speed, endurance and agility. Because these breeds are not weight carriers, their riders typically carried little armour and used lightweight weapons such as bows, spears and rifles.

Recent research has show that medieval war horses were more likely to be pony-sized, with horses of 15hh and above actually very rare. Researchers also said it is likely that throughout the medieval period, different conformations of horses would have become desirable in response to changing battlefield tactics and cultural preferences.

Horses in the modern day Household Cavalry can be a variety of breeds, usually Irish Draughts (and crosses), but can also be Cleveland Bay, Fresian or warmblood. The ‘Cavalry Black’ refers to any black horse that meets the required height and conformation standards set by the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

Horses in World War I

At the start of WWI, many horses were enrolled as part of the cavalry, and the British Army entered the war with 25,000 horses at their disposal. They purchased a further 115,000 under the compulsory Horse Mobilisation Scheme, which involved acquiring horses from domestic and international sources.

As the horses were so vulnerable to modern machine gun fire, by the end of the war their role was more about transporting troops and ammunition. Military vehicles were relatively new at this time, which meant that horses and mules were seen as a more reliable and accessible form of transport. Thousands of horses were used to pull field guns – but with up to 12 horses required to pull each gun, exhaustion was a real problem.

Around 484,000 British horses died in World War I, which is one for every two British soldiers. The largest single day of loss occurred during the Battle of Verdun in 1916, with 7,000 horses killed by long-range shelling and single shots.

Vets treated 2.5m horses during World War I – of these, 2m recovered and were returned to the battlefield, but it could take carers up to 12 hours to clean a horse and its harness after battle.

Much to the relief of British horse owners, due to advances in mechanisation there were far fewer horses needed by the British Army in WWII. In 1942, the British employed 6,500 horses, which was a small figure compared to the 2.75 million and 3.5 million used by the German and Soviet armies.

Famous war horses

Like comparing Arkle with Best Mate, it’s invidious to compare the best of a generation across the decades, or even centuries. However, there are a handful of war horses who go down in the annals of greatness.

Copenhagen

The Duke of Wellington’s chestnut charger in the Napoleonic Wars. The Arab/throroughbred was named for the second battle of Copenhagen, won by the British. His day of days (and consequently the whole nation’s) came on 18 June, 1815, during the Battle of Waterloo, when Wellington’s main opponent, the French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, was defeated.

Copenhagen was extremely well-bred for the racetrack (though he won only two races), with both his grandparents (Eclipse and John Bull) being Derby winners. Copenhagen enjoyed a happy retirement at the Duke’s Hampshire estate until his death at 28, and apparently had a penchant for sponge cakes and chocolate creams. He was honoured with a full military funeral.

An Arabian stallion called Marengo was Copenhagen’s opposite number, ridden by Napoleon – but as he was captured by the Brits in the Battle of Waterloo, Copenhagen gets the nod.

Warrior

General Jack Seely’s aptly named charger in World War I was dubbed the horse the Germans couldn’t kill on account of the number of misses he survived.

Warrior eventually died at the age of 33, having carried his master safely through four years of war, from Ypres to the Somme, Passchendaele and Cambria, finally leading a cavalry charge which crucially checked the great German offensive in the spring of 1918.

Jack Seely writes in his book, Warrior: The Amazing Story Of A Real War Horse, “In the War nearly all Warrior’s comrades were killed, and nearly all of mine, but we both survived, and largely because of him.”

Bucephalus

The favourite horse of Alexander the Great, one of the most famous generals of antiquity. Legend has it that a 13-year-old Alexander was gifted the horse and he later accompanied him in many battles, with the horse eventually being killed in the Battle Hyadspes River in 326BC.

To honour the horse, Alexander built a city named after Bucephalus in what is now Pakistan.

Sergeant Reckless

Unlike the speedy chargers with mostly thoroughbred blood, Reckless was a Mongolian mare used by the US Marine Corps in the Korean War in 1952.

Centuries earlier, Ghengis Khan and his soldiers conquered lands from Hungary to Korea riding Mongol horses, so this small, durable breed is no back number in the battle field.

Reckless would transport supplies and evacuate soldiers, continuing despite being injured twice. She was so named for her fearless nature, and was given the rank of Sergeant in 1954 having conducted 51 solo rides in one day. She amused the unit with her liking for scrambled eggs and beer.

A modern-day ‘war horse’

The modern event horse has very recent roots in war horses. From 1912 to 1948, all eventing competitors were male, rode in military uniform and were commissioned officers. Only in 1964 were women allowed to compete – the concept hitherto being that if the cross-county mirrored a battle field, an injured soldier would continue (thereby not letting down his country – or his team), whereas if a female rider fell off her male team-mates would not expect her to continue.

Eventing was often referred to as “the military” in its early days, when the competition served as a the complete test of an officer’s battle charger. The dressage signified the horse’s ability to perform ceremonial parades and show obedient training in formation; the cross-country tested speed, endurance, and boldness as they would need in battle, while the showjumping showed if a horse was sound after “battle” and could recover well enough to perform a simple jumping test.

Many eventers in the early part of the 20th century were real-life war horses. Seweryn Kulesza won a silver medal as part of the Polish eventing team riding his horse Tóska at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. A few years later, he rode this same horse as his battle charger in World War II, when the mare was killed, Seweryn was captured by the Germans and spent the rest of the war in Oflag VII-A Murnau prisoner-of-war camp.

Of all the horses competing in Olympic disciplines, eventers – typically near thoroughbred, or lightweight warmbloods with a high percentage of thoroughbred – show the closest link to the battle chargers that fought on behalf of his country or territory over millennia.

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The site was previously a remount depot and horse hospital, supplying the military with horses for operational use from 1904.

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A much-loved Household Cavalry horse who made a “remarkable recovery” from injuries he sustained while loose on the streets of London has retired from duty aged 15, in a “shining example of what can be achieved when tradition meets compassion”.

Quaker, one of five horses who broke loose in the capital last April, having been spooked by sudden noise from construction work, had a holiday at The Horse Trust while he recovered from the injuries he sustained. This week, he returned to the Buckinghamshire charity to enjoy his retirement.

“Military working horse Quaker begins his retirement at The Horse Trust sanctuary, marking a new chapter after dramatic footage of him bolting injured through London’s streets captured global attention,” an Army spokesperson said.

“Following expert veterinary treatment and surgery, Quaker is now returning to The Horse Trust to enjoy his retirement.”

The Chilterns charity has been caring for service horses for 139 years, and last year it provided 3,430 “horse turnout days”, for equine police and army recruits.

“Military working animals provide an invaluable service to our military personnel, including a long history in battle, and continuing through key ceremonial roles,” the spokesperson said.

“The Army has a focus on military horse welfare, and The Horse Trust now runs a pioneering respite scheme, where military working horses take ‘short breaks and summer holidays’. These breaks reflect ongoing efforts to enhance military animal welfare, helping with both performance and quality of life for horses.”

Louise Sandher-Jones, minister for veterans and people said there is a commitment to those who serve their country, including “our much-loved service animals”.

“Quaker’s well-deserved retirement comes after a stellar career in the armed forces and after a high-profile bolting incident, which captured the nation’s attention,” she said.

“This partnership with The Horse Trust also shows how the Army looks after its military working horses and will improve animal welfare.”

There are 32 former military horses enjoying their retirement at The Horse Trust, 26 from the Household Cavalry.

The regiment’s commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Matt Woodward said: “The partnership between the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and The Horse Trust is a shining example of what can be achieved when tradition meets compassion.

“This initiative plays a crucial role in supporting long-term physical and psychological welfare, ensuring they return to duty refreshed and well-balanced.”

Charity CEO Jeanette Allen added that The Horse Trust is “committed to providing respite and retirement to horses who have served our nation and our communities”.

“Our close relationship with HCMR is one we are extremely proud of,” she said.

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A “truly special” mare, who gave 15 years of “exceptional service” to the Household Cavalry and captured hearts on national television – has died following a peaceful retirement, aged 28.

Charisma retired to the Horse Trust in 2016, having been part of the Household Cavalry Life Guards. During her career she took part in all major ceremonial events including a number of The late Queen’s birthday parades and then 2011 wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

A Horse Trust spokesperson said Charisma was “a real favourite” in her regiment owing to her calm and gentle temperament. She was also known for her love of jumping, which “she excelled at”.

“Charisma took part in the annual Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment’s training camp where they took part in a variety of activities including cross-country and showjumping, which suited her down to the ground,” she said.

“When she retired to our Home of Rest for Horses, her nature and beautiful looks made her a familiar face in our annual calendar and other photoshoots, including for Remembrance Sunday. She was rarely seen apart from her companion Elizabeth, who was similar to her in both looks and character.

“Charisma was a horse who loved attention and a good scratch on the face. She quickly settled into her slower pace of life, enjoying the company of her herd and the peaceful days of retirement.”

Horse Trust chief executive Jeanette Allen said Charisma “lived up to her name”.

“She was a sweet and often funny presence, never more so than when she appeared with me on Good Morning Britain last year. She totally stole the show,” said Jeanette.

“A huge character with so many years of public service behind her, I’ll miss her big, beautiful face always looking out for attention. Sleep tight gorgeous girl.”

The spokesperson said “in recent months Charisma’s age caught up with her.”

“She struggled with poor dentition, which made it difficult for her to maintain her weight, particularly during the winter, and she never fully recovered this year,” she said.

“Coupled with a flare-up of arthritis, it became clear that her comfort could no longer be maintained. It was felt the kindest decision was to let her go peacefully.”

The spokesperson added that Charisma was “a truly special horse”.

“Her sweet nature and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her,” she said.

“Rest easy, Charisma. Thank you for your noble service, your beautiful nature and the joy you brought to us all.”

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Captain Elizabeth (Lizzie) Godwin, the first female officer to commission into the Life Guards has been remembered as a “truly kind, selfless and committed friend to all” following her death in a road collision aged 28.

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Tom Armitage paid tribute to the “trailblazing young officer”.

Captain Godwin was born in 1997 and attended Elm Grove School in Topsham, followed by Exeter School. She completed her A-levels at Trent College, where she secured an Army scholarship and a place at Sandhurst, and studied nursing at King’s College London.

She won the prestigious Sword of Honour at Sandhurst as the best of her intake, and was commissioned into the Life Guards in 2020.

“Lizzie was a very driven and determined officer who achieved a huge amount in her five years with the Household Cavalry,” said Lt Col Armitage.

“First and foremost, she was a talented, resourceful, and compassionate troop leader serving initially with the Household Cavalry (Armoured Cavalry) Regiment in Bulford and then with the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment in London. She was currently serving at the Army Training Regiment in Pirbright inspiring the next generation of soldiers as they conducted their initial Army training.

“It was during her time at the mounted regiment that she made her biggest impact on the Army and which she described as the greatest privilege of her life: participating in The Queen’s funeral, leading her troop in meticulous preparation for the coronation and commanding a division of the Life Guards on the day itself.

“Beyond this, she led a medal-winning team in the British Army’s Cambrian patrol competition (one of the toughest military patrol competitions in the world), deployed with equine ceremonial training teams to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan and brilliantly planned and commanded the Household Cavalry’s musical ride deployment and performance at the World Equestrian Festival in Aachen in 2023 in front of a 40,000-strong audience.”

He added that Captain Godwin “was equally determined on the sports field” as a talented hockey player, The Cresta Run toboggan rider and regular member of the Household Cavalry polo team, for which she received her Army polo colours. She was also a trustee of The Life Guards Association Trust.

“History may record Lizzie as the first female officer in the Army’s most senior regiment, but I know she would want to be recalled simply as a tough and talented young officer doing her utmost to serve king and country and to lead and inspire soldiers,” said Lt Col Armitage.

“Her sudden and untimely death leaves a huge void for all of us in the Household Cavalry family and she will be remembered by us all as a lively, fun and dynamic officer with a very bright future ahead of her. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”

Police appeal

Surrey Police are appealing for information following the fatal collision in Lightwater on Friday, 5 September.

Police were called to the A322 Lightwater Bypass between the M3 junction and the Read Road roundabout at around 8pm following a collision involving a silver Nissan and a silver BMW.

“We are devastated by the loss of Lizzie and ask for privacy at this deeply distressing time,” said Captain Godwin’s mother.

The other driver, a 30-year-old man from Bracknell, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and being unfit to drive through alcohol. He has been released on bail while police enquiries continue.

Surrey Police is asking for the public’s help in identifying any potential witnesses.

“Were you in the area around A322 Lightwater Bypass between 19:45 and 20:45 on Friday, 5 September? Do you have any CCTV, dashcam, or helmet cam footage that may have captured all or part of this incident?” said a Surrey Police spokesperson.

Contact Surrey Police with information on one of the options below and quote reference PR/45250109216, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Surrey Police contact details:

• 24/7 live chat service at www.surrey.police.uk
• Online form
• Call 101

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A faithful, graceful Army horse, who was a “loyal friend and a true gentleman” has died aged 22 after a happy retirement.

Jaipur, who served in the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment for 15 years, had to be put down owing to severe colic, a year after he retired to the Horse Trust.

“Although he was only with us for a short time, Jaipur touched the hearts of everyone who met him,” a spokesperson for the charity said.

“A striking black gelding with a kind soul, known fondly as having ‘the bounciest trot in all the Life Guards Squadron’, Jaipur was a familiar face at some of the country’s most iconic events, including Trooping the Colour, the state opening of parliament, musical rides and more.”

Jaipur, who also excelled in showjumping, winning derby classes, was described by his regiment as “faithful throughout the duration of his service.”

“Jaipur perfectly balanced athletic power with parade-ground poise,” the spokesperson said. “Whether out in the field or on duty at Horse Guards Parade, he carried himself with effortless grace.”

Jaipur “relished” his retirement, as he was reunited with former colleagues and made new friends.

“He was especially close to fellow cavalry retiree Incognito; his best friend and partner in crime, often seen grazing by his side or galloping together into pastures new,” the spokesperson said. “During a brief period of recovery in the stables from a cannon bone injury, Jaipur also struck up an unlikely friendship with Shadow, a Shetland pony. Though their paths wouldn’t usually cross, the two were very interested in each other during their time indoors.

“Gentle and loving by nature, Jaipur quickly became a visitor favourite and was often brought in to say hello on open days, always winning hearts with his calm, noble presence.”

Jaipur initially showed signs of improvement after his acute bout of colic but his condition deteriorated.

“With a poor prognosis for recovery, we made the heart-breaking decision to put him to sleep in his best interests,” the spokesperson said.

“We feel deeply honoured to have cared for Jaipur in his final chapter. He was more than a horse – he was a loyal friend, a true gentleman, and a cherished member of our herd.”

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A “free-spirited” mare who served her country for over a decade, then embraced her retirement has died at the age of 19.

Former Household Cavalry recruit Longbow had settled beautifully at The Horse Trust, to which she was retired last year, but had to be put down owing to a serious injury.

“It is with great sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved Longbow,” a spokesperson for the charity said. “Some horses arrive at our Home of Rest for Horses and it feels as though they were always meant to find their way here. Longbow was one of those special souls. A stunning black mare with a free spirit, she took to retirement like a duck to water, roaming the fields she loved with her best friend, Kimberly, always by her side.”

Longbow mainly served in The Queen’s (now The King’s) Life Guard ceremonial unit. She also enjoyed showjumping, taking part in military competitions.

“Beneath her strong will, she was a kind and sensitive soul who cherished life’s simple pleasures,” the spokesperson said.

Longbow retired in 2024; the spokesperson said that she had been vet-shy for years and the Army and charity had a meeting to discuss whether she would adapt to retirement, given her “complex needs”.

“When she arrived, naturally turned out, we were delighted by how brilliantly she settled,” she said. “Longbow beautifully embraced retirement and appeared to relish just being a horse. She was reunited with her old companion Kimberley, their London-born friendship continuing in the rolling fields of the Chilterns. While she settled into life in the countryside, she also carried a touch of city sophistication, refusing to eat a carrot if it had touched the dust.

“Horse Trust veterinary assistant Claire formed a special partnership with Longbow, patiently working with her to build confidence through needle training, leading, and catching sessions. Longbow made incredible progress and towards the end looked forward to her training sessions with Claire.”

Claire said she loved working with Longbow.

“We were really making progress, and I was heartbroken to say goodbye – though I know it was the kindest decision for her,” she said.

Owing to the seriousness of Longbow’s injury, and after discussion on whether it would be fair to put her through months of box rest and veterinary treatment, it was agreed that “the kindest decision was to say goodbye”.

“Like all the horses at our Home of Rest, Longbow was an individual and decisions regarding her injury were taken with her wellbeing at the heart,” the spokesperson said. “While we are devastated by her loss, we take comfort in knowing that her final years were filled with love, freedom, and friendship.

“Now, we bid her farewell as she gallops across endless green pastures. Rest in peace, Longbow. You were truly loved.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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The grey Household Cavalry horse who was seen galloping through the streets of London last spring is back with his regiment having made a complete recovery.

Pictures of Vida, injured in the capital, spread worldwide in April; he was one of five horses who broke loose on a routine ride, having been spooked by a sudden noise from construction work.

The injured horses were treated by the regiment’s “superb” vets, after which Trojan, Tennyson and Vanquish spent time recovering at The Horse Trust. The day these three went back to London, Vida and Quaker, who had been more badly hurt, were discharged from veterinary care to enjoy their own summer holiday at the Buckinghamshire charity’s base.

“At The Horse Trust, Vida was given the time and space to recover both physically and emotionally,” a spokesperson for the charity said. “[Our] compassionate care team provided a safe, quiet environment where he could complete his recovery and unwind, often seen rolling happily in the mud – true to the reputation of a typical grey!

“Sharing a paddock with former service horses, including Royal Mews retiree Storm, Vida spent his days playing with our older yet still spritely residents, and enjoying the lush pastures.”

Horse Trust veterinary director Nicola Housby Skeggs said waving goodbye to Vida was “bittersweet”.

“He has been an absolute superstar, winning the grooms’ hearts – and treats,” she said.

“We are so pleased to see him make such a fantastic recovery. While he will be missed here, as a relative youngster, he is certainly now ready for some exercise!”

Senior groom Lotte, who cared for Vida at The Horse Trust, said: Vida is a “very sweet boy”, quick to learn and eager to please.

“He is full of character and came over whinnying to us every time we went out,” she said.

“He absolutely loves attention, maybe even more than he likes rolling in the muddiest part of the field! We will miss him greatly, but we look forward to seeing him back out and about soon.”

Horse Trust CEO Jeanette Allen added that it had been an honour to take Vida for his recovery.

“Vida has come to hold a particular place in our hearts, he’s been a joy to care for, partly as we don’t have to groom that muddy monster for parade!” she said

“He’s had a lovely time, and we are extremely proud of him as he sets off back to his role in the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment. The Horse Trust was founded 138 years ago as a charity to provide a place of respite for London’s working horses and now specialises in offering five-star respite and retirement to service horses from around the country. We know our founder, Ann Lindo, would have loved Vida; she had a very soft spot for greys.

“We’ll so miss having him around, but we all wish him every success in the rest of his service career.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout major shows such as London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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The Horse Trust has said a sad goodbye to “the perfect cavalry black”, who has had to be put down aged 27 after a long and happy retirement.

Commando, a “strikingly handsome” 17.3hh gelding, had spent 12 years enjoying the “gold standard of retirement” at the charity’s base in the Chilterns, but suffered from arthritis and asthma, and despite ongoing care, vets decided it was in his best interests to say goodbye.

Commando spent 10 years in the Blues and Royals regiment of the Household Cavalry, during which time he was on duty at events including the Prince and Princess of Wales’ wedding, The late Queen’s golden and diamond jubilees and state openings of parliament.

“Although he was an exemplary cavalry horse throughout his career, Commando began to suffer with arthritis in several joints, which eventually led to his retirement,” a spokesperson for the Horse Trust said. “We were delighted to receive him here alongside some of his fellow comrades including Union, Venture and Zulu, and we were keen to give them the gold standard of equine retirement provided here in the peaceful Chiltern hills.”

The spokesperson said Commando was still fairly young for a retiring military horse, and “still had plenty of joie de vivre, as shown by his proclivity to kick at his stable door when he first started to come into a stable during visiting hours, which promptly got him relieved of this duty!

“Luckily for him, his ridiculously handsome good looks meant he got away with this roguish behaviour, and also meant he featured alongside famous War Horse puppet Joey for our commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the First World War.”

The spokesperson added that Commando was known as a true gentleman.

“He found a firm friend in Wellington, another Household Cavalry retiree who joined us a couple of years after Commando’s arrival,” she said. “The two perhaps shared tales of their working days, having both had the honour of carrying the standard for the Blues and Royals. They certainly were very close companions; during breakfast time Wellington would affectionately lick Commando after finishing his feed. Sadly, we lost Wellington a few months ago but hopefully they have now been reunited in the unending pastures in the sky.

“The Horse Trust won’t be the same after the loss of beautiful Commando, but our work to give these equine heroes the best retirement throughout their twilight years is crucial to us and preserving their dignity comes before anything else.

“Gentle, trustworthy and protective, Commando was truly a special soul, which is why he was selected to be a treasured sponsor resident and we would like to take this opportunity to thank all his kind and generous sponsors who have enabled us to give him the best care throughout his retirement, which allowed him to reach the grand old age of 27 in comfort.

“Rest in peace, gorgeous Commando, you will always be missed.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout Horse of the Year Show, London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

‘The best boy’: 18.2hh police horse who stole hearts in TV interview arrives at his forever home

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A “gentle yet bold” 17.2hh gelding who has served in the Household Division for 14 years was retired with fitting ceremony at Defender Burghley Horse Trials.

Irish-bred 18-year-old Atticus took centre stage in the main arena at Burghley on Sunday (8 September). His saddle was removed and swapped for a rug from the Horse Trust, where he will spend his retirement.

“This marked the end of an extraordinary 14-year career, during which he served as an officer’s charger,” a spokesperson for the charity said. “Now aged 18, Atticus is set to enjoy a well-earned retirement at our Home of Rest for Horses in the beautiful Chilterns.”

The spokesperson said Atticus had been an integral part of the division, “excelling” in parades and on state occasions.

“His calm and quiet temperament, along with his dignified presence, made him a standout at some of the UK’s most significant royal and military events,” he added.

A spokesperson for the Household Division added that Atticus had been ridden by Foot Guards officers in many key positions on parade.

“His quiet temperament made him perfectly suited for the role, and his striking appearance made him stand out,” he said.

The Horse Trust spokesperson said Burghley “provided the perfect setting to honour Atticus’s long and noble career”.

“At midday, just before the excitement of the Shetland Pony Grand National, Atticus took his final steps as a member of the Household Division in the main arena,” he said. “Before a moved and tearful crowd, his saddle was removed for the last time, and he was wrapped in the comfort of his new Horse Trust rug, symbolising the end of his distinguished career and the beginning of a peaceful and fulfilling retirement among friends, both old and new, in the serene fields of Buckinghamshire.

“The touching moment was met with tears and applause, a fitting tribute to Atticus’s loyal service and his lasting impact on The Household Division.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout the National Dressage Championships, Blenheim Horse Trials, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Three horses from the Household Cavalry were “swiftly and safely recovered” after they got loose from their riders in London this morning (1 July).

A spokesperson for the Army confirmed to H&H that one horse sustained minor injuries and no soldiers were hurt.

Six horses were out in the capital on routine exercise with five soldiers, and the lead horse was being led from a rider on another horse.

This lead horse became loose after it was spooked by a London bus. This led to two riders’ being unseated from their horses, who also got loose.

The three loose horses went from Seville Street to South Eaton Place, where one horse was caught. Two of the escapees went on to Vauxhall Bridge via Belgrave Road, where they were stopped. All the horses were back at Hyde Park Barracks by 9.55am.

The Army confirmed that none of these horses were involved in the incident of 24 April, when military horses were loose in London.

“We can confirm that whilst exercising this morning, three horses from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment became loose from their riders. They were swiftly and safely recovered,” the Army spokesperson said.

“One horse received minor injuries, but no further treatment is required and there were no injuries to the soldiers involved”.

The Metropolitan Police was also involved; a spokesperson for the police told H&H: “We’re aware that a number of horses were loose in central London and worked with the Army to locate them. We’re pleased to confirm that all of the horses have been accounted for. We are continuing to liaise with the Army.”

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‘The freshest breath on parade!’ Army horse injured in London to star in King’s birthday celebration – after plenty of mints

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

One of the horses who was injured while running loose in London this spring will be taking part in The King’s birthday parade – with the freshest breath in the regiment.

Tennyson, who was one of the five Household Cavalry horses who were injured after they were spooked in the capital in April, has “returned to service without missing a step”, so much so that he will be among the 242 horses at the event tomorrow (15 June).

Straight after the incident, Tennyson and his colleagues Trojan and Vanquish had emergency veterinary treatment, then after a period at Hyde Park Barracks were sent to The Horse Trust for “expert respite care in rolling fields”.

“Their recovery was so swift and successful that they returned to service last month,” an Army spokesperson said. “Since then, they have been gradually reacclimatised to London life and have shown such aptitude and eagerness that they’re all now back on duty.”

Tennyson will be part of the sovereign’s escort at the rear of the second division in the birthday parade. Trojan and Vanquish will be part of The King’s Life Guard at Horse Guards.

Captain Charles Carr-Smith, 1 Troop Leader, the Life Guards Squadron, Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment said: “Military working horse Tennyson is the epitome of a cavalry black. Bold and brave as a war horse should be, yet a gentleman to ride and groom.

“Tennyson has returned to service without missing a step. His return has lifted the spirits of those in 1 Troop the Life Guards. Knowing that this brilliant horse will once again carry his rider carefully down the Mall or canter off, leaping over log piles in Melton Mowbray, is a comfort to our less experienced riders, who will undoubtedly scramble to put their names alongside his, for daily exercise. Due to so many well-wishers sending in mints, it goes without saying that Tennyson has the freshest breath of any horse on parade!”

Tennyson will be ridden by Corporal of Horse Harvey, the Life Guards Squadron equitation instructor and the most experienced rider in the division.

“The riders caught up in the incident are also doing well, with three of the five who sustained injuries, recovered and back on duty,” the spokesperson said. “The remaining two soldiers continue to make good progress in their recovery and are expected to return to duty in due course. The two more seriously injured horses, Vida and Quaker, are still enjoying their peaceful countryside respite care at The Horse Trust, and will do so for as long as they need.”

Horse Trust CEO Jeanette Allen said everyone at the charity is very happy to see Tennyson, Trojan and Vanquish back on parade.

“Anything we have done to help them complete their recovery, to the point of returning to full duties, means a great deal to us,” she said. “We also thank the public for their continued support of our charity in providing dignified retirements to all types of public service horses and perhaps one day, in the hopefully distant future, these boys may return to live out their days here at the end of their service.

“Their friends Vida and Quaker are still enjoying their peaceful countryside respite with us and will do so for as long as they need.”

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The five military working horses who were injured after running loose through London in April are “recovering with remarkable speed”, as are their riders.

An update from the Army today (4 June) said that three of the horses are now back on duty and “against all expectations” are looking likely to take part in The King’s Birthday Parade (15 June). The other two are continuing to recuperate in the countryside at The Horse Trust.

Commanding officer of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment (HCMR) lieutenant colonel Mathew Woodward said that is is “very likely” that Trojan, Tennyson and Vanquish will participate in Trooping the Colour this month.

“The remaining two, Vida and Quaker, are enjoying a summer holiday in the Chilterns thanks to The Horse Trust,” he said.

“They are expected to make a full recovery and we look forward to seeing them back on duty in due course. Of the two most seriously injured soldiers, one is continuing his recovery at home and the other at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Stanford Hall. They are both considered likely to return to military service in the fullness of time.”

On 24 April, the horses were out on morning exercise in Belgravia when they spooked by construction rubble being dropped through a plastic tunnel. The horses were seen galloping through the streets, as police and the Army worked together to catch them.

Jeanette Allen, chief executive at The Horse Trust, said that it “has been a privilege to provide these wonderful horses with the space and time needed to fully recover”.

“It’s been so lovely to see Trojan, Tennyson and Vanquish enjoying such a relaxing break and now we have Vida and Quaker already loving their time here,” she said.

“All five horses are much younger than our regular service residents and seeing them running, rolling and generally having fun after such a challenging experience, is a real joy.”

Today’s statement from the Army added that the horses’ “remarkable recovery is thanks in no small part to the excellent in-house care they’ve received from the Army’s own dedicated veterinary surgeons and the amazing specialist support provided by The Horse Trust”.

The statements said that all injured soldiers and horses received expert emergency care immediately after the incident, and the horses were then put under constant supervision by Army vets.

Once Trojan, Tennyson and Vanquish were well enough to travel, they were sent for respite at The Horse Trust. After careful assessment, they were found fit to return to London and were collected on 29 May.

“The Horse Trust understands the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle for animals to prevent sickness and injury. Returning to work can help facilitate this lifestyle for the horses, ensuring they remain fit, healthy and enjoy long and fulfilling lives,” said the statement.

“On the same day that Trojan, Tennyson, and Vanquish left the Chilterns to return to Hyde Park Barracks, Vida and Quaker – the two most severely injured horses – were pronounced fit to travel and arrived at The Horse Trust for their respite care, having been discharged from veterinary care in London.

“Vida and Quaker have made a remarkable physical recovery and showed great enthusiasm and joy upon their arrival at The Horse Trust, galloping into fresh pastures. Vida, the Cavalry Grey, wasted no time in turning from white to brown as he rolled in the grass. The horses appeared bright and in good spirits, clearly displaying a close bond with each other and the soldiers who accompanied them.

“The horses will remain with The Horse Trust for as long as they need before being assessed for their suitability to return to work. Onsite veterinary care is available 24/7 to provide any necessary treatment during their stay.

“The long-standing relationship between The Horse Trust and HCMR provides for the perfect support as the military working horses unwind and relax in the Chilterns.”

The statement added: “Both the Army and The Horse Trust have been overwhelmed by the amount of public care and interest in the recovery of the soldiers and horses affected by the incident, and would like to thank everyone that expressed their concern and best wishes for a speedy recovery – they look to have been granted!”

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‘We thank everyone for their kindness’: two Army horses injured in London undergo surgery

Police ‘risked their own safety’ to help injured Army horses loose on the streets of London

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

How many famous black horses do you know? Tall, dark and handsome – there’s something so irresistible about a black horse. From the Lloyds Friesians galloping across our screens to equine superstars such as Classic Moet and Black Caviar, black horses are blessed with presence and panache.

Such is our captivation with black horses that they have well and truly left their hoofprints in the pages of history. They’ve inspired stories, art and generations of equestrians. We’ve narrowed down the world’s famous black horses to five favourites – though it was a tough call!

1. Bucephalus (4th Century BCE)

We hear about Bucephalus from Plutarch, the Greek historian and philosopher. According to his Life of Alexander, Bucephalus was a wild black horse with a large white star. He was given to Alexander the Great’s father, King Philip II of Macedon. The horse’s name combines the Greek words “bous”, meaning ox, and “kephalos”, which means head.

Bucephalus seemed wild and vicious – no one in King Philip’s court could get anywhere near him. Alexander, only a boy, watched the horse kick and fight and noticed he was afraid of his own shadow. If you’ve ever hacked a spooky horse, you’ll appreciate this!

Alexander turned Bucephalus’ head towards the sun and, shadow obscured, the horse relaxed. Thanks to his observance and patience, the young prince bridled and mounted the unrideable Bucephalus.

Bucephalus became Alexander’s famous war horse. When the horse died in battle at Hydaspes in 326 BCE, Alexander named a nearby city Bucephala (sometimes acknowledged as modern day Jhulem in Pakistan).

The story of Bucephalus is recounted in the 1970s classic film The Black Stallion, and tells the story of a boy who tames a wild horse.

2. Black Beauty (published 1877)

As famous black horses go, we’re sure you’ll have heard of this horse! Black Beauty is the titular character of a beloved children’s novel by Anna Sewell. Anna, born to Quaker parents in 1820s Norfolk, was permanently disabled when she broke both ankles as a child. Her mobility severely limited and her health poor, she spent much of her life assisting with her mother Mary’s writing.

She relied on horse-drawn carriages to get out and about and it is said this helped her develop a huge affection and sympathy for horses. She began writing Black Beauty in the 1870s, of which she said “its special aim being to induce kindness, sympathy and an understanding treatment of horses”.

The novel follows Beauty from birth to his final home. Throughout his life, Beauty changes hands many times and suffers a number of trials and tribulations. Most strikingly, Beauty is made to wear a bearing rein while pulling a baker’s cart. This is a device that was used to hitch a driven horse’s head up as high head carriage was the fashion. In the novel, a woman shows the driver how much easier Beauty could manage with his head low. Following the publication of Black Beauty, the use of bearing reins was abolished.

Sadly, Sewell died shortly after its publication in April 1878, but not before she learned of its success. Today, Black Beauty is a 50 million-copy bestseller and is undoubtedly one of the best horse movies ever made.

These days, the novel’s cultural impact knows no bounds. There are a host of film and stage adaptations to enjoy and it’s even one of Queen Camilla’s favourites. However, perhaps most significant is that the novel serves as a manifesto for the kind treatment of horses. Bernard Unti, who wrote a chapter on Sewell in Encyclopedia of Animal Rights and Animal Welfare, dubbed Black Beauty as “the most influential anti-cruelty novel of all time”.

3. Burmese (1962-1990)

Gifted to Queen Elizabeth II in 1969 by The Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Burmese was a striking black mare born in Saskatchewan and trained in Ottawa. It is said the regiment had heard The Queen was looking for a new horse. Thus, Burmese was presented to Her Majesty at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in 1969.

Burmese was a horse for business and leisure. Queen Elizabeth was often seen on board Burmese whatever the weather during stays at country houses, but most famously the mare was the Queen’s chosen mount for Trooping the Colour 18 years in a row until her retirement in 1987. Burmese was buried in the grounds of Windsor after her death in 1990.

During Trooping the Colour of 1981, Burmese was famously spooked by a teenager firing blanks at her royal rider from the crowd. Burmese was understandably unsettled but The Queen, riding side saddle, handled her horse expertly.

4. Sefton (1963–1993)

If you’re looking for famous black horses with hero status, then look no further. The part-bred Irish Draught was purchased by the Army as a four-year-old and was assigned to the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment. During his time at the barracks, he received the nickname “Sharkey”, which alluded to his penchant for biting.

Sefton gained a reputation for being difficult, and was sent out with the Blues and Royals on deployment in Germany with great success. In fact, he even competed in showjumping while posted out there.

However, Sefton became a beacon of resilience and bravery in July 1982 following the detonation of an IRA nailbomb in Hyde Park. Sefton and 15 other horses were participating in the changing of the guard when the incendiary went off. Tragically, two soldiers were killed at the scene and a further two died later of their wounds. Meanwhile, all the horses were wounded, with seven put down at the scene. However, Sefton was the most severely hurt.

Following eight hours of surgery – a record for a horse at the time – Sefton returned to his duties for a further two years after convalescing at the Veterinary Hospital of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps and the Defence Animal Centre, Melton Mowbray.

Sefton received countless cards and mints during his hospital stay. Plus, the public raised more £620,000 for the new Sefton Surgical Wing at the Royal Veterinary College.

Following his retirement to the Home of Rest for Horses in Speen, Buckinghamshire, Sefton’s lived until he was 30, when complications that arose from his injuries took their toll. He was one of the first horses inducted in the British Horse Society Equestrian Hall of Fame in 2005.

5. Totilas (2000-2020)

This black stallion heralded a new era of dressage when he burst onto the grand prix scene with Dutch rider Edward Gal in 2009. Famously, “Toto” was the first horse to score more than 90% in a grand prix test. Later that year, at Olympia, the pair broke the freestyle record to score 92.3%. Following their success, Edward and Toto cleaned up a the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky. However, this was to be their last championship as the stallion was sold to Germany shortly after.

Matthias Rath was given riding rights when his step mother, Ann Kathrin Lissenhoff, bought shares in Totilas. Rath and Toto won their first grand prix and special at München-Reim in 2011, but the horse retired in 2015 following a disappointing score of 79.571% in Aachen and concerns for his soundness.

Following a five-year retirement spent hacking and at stud, Totilas died as a result of a serious colic episode.

Who is your favourite famous black horse? Write to us at hhletters@futurenet.com including your name, nearest town and county for the chance to have your thoughts published in H&H magazine

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“The partnership and the silhouette of Edward and Toto became iconic, something those of us lucky enough to see them

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Several Army horses were in the spotlight last month when falling rubble at a London building site caused them to spook and unseat their riders. The story shone a light on how even well-trained horses can be upset by unexpected situations – but have the loose cavalry horses improved road safety?

On 24 April, five Household Cavalry horses broke away from their group exercise in Belgravia, near Buckingham Palace. Four soldiers fell – three were assessed in hospital with non-life threatening injuries – but the most startling detail of this widely-reported story was the five-mile charge of two bloodied horses through the nation’s capital.

Distressing images of Quaker, a Cavalry black, and Vida, a grey, were plastered on front pages the following morning (25 April) and many news outlets operated live coverage on their websites. Opinion columns on the story appeared in the days that followed as equestrians and non-equestrians alike clamoured to know what was to become of the pair – who underwent surgery shortly after being caught on the other side of London.

Subsequent updates issued by the Army suggest Vida and Quaker are making progress and are being observed closely as their wounds heal. Reports from the Army reveal Quaker is expected to make a full recovery. However, according to some riders, this story’s impact has been significant, with some noticing changes for the better in the conduct of motorists.

Loose Cavalry horses: “It’s brought it home to drivers”

When Louise Meadows, 58, hacked out with her 27-year-old Connemara cross, Mystery, last Saturday (27 April), she noticed drivers passing her with a more courtesy than usual. When she posted her experience in the Pass Wide and Slow Facebook group, linking it to the events in London earlier that week, several other riders concurred.

The group, which has over 50,000 members, was established to try to educate drivers on how to pass horses safely, while also supporting riders. It encourages members to organise awareness rides to help educate motorists on passing horses safely. The group also advises equestrians to wear hi viz for horses and hi viz for riders, although that is not its primary function.

Louise, who is based north of Peterborough, says: “It’s mainly roadwork where we are, unless we hack for a decent amount of time to get to a bridleway.

“I ride on the road all the time. My horse wears leg bands, I’m in a hi-vis jacket and hat band, so no one can say they can’t see us. Drivers are in a rush, and don’t have time for us horse riders.”

Recalling her hack with a friend on Saturday, Louise says drivers seemed to be a lot more courteous.

“We went on a road we don’t go on all the time – it’s a back road that’s notorious for people using it as a cut through.

“Often people misinterpret our hand signals to them to stop or slow down and just wave back, or ignore it completely, but they seemed to listen this time. We always say thank you, but rarely get a thank you back. This time, people were more respectful.”

Louise attributes some of the caution showed by motorists to the fact Mystery is grey.

“That poor grey horse was covered in blood, I think that really brought it home to people.”

“When they saw the pictures of the smashed bus windscreen and the taxi dented, that probably made them think ‘that could be me and my family’.”

Louise says Mystery is more likely to spook at “a dark patch of grass” than a car, but other road users don’t realise this.

“They say when horses jump to the side it can be a quick as 40mph, people don’t realise how quickly they react. If we preempt something they might look at, we put a hand up to tell [the motorist] to stop. We’re trying to keep everyone safe, some riders are children, but they don’t always adhere to it.”

Louise said the root of the problem is lack of patience.

“It takes half a minute or less to get past safely and it makes all the difference.”

“Some people had increased awareness”

Leanne Docherty of Denbighshire, North Wales, noticed drivers “slamming on [their brakes] a bit” the day after the incident in London.

She and her eight-year-old Andalusian/Welsh Section D, Taran, spent a lot of time walking their local hacking routes in-hand as part of Taran’s backing as a youngster.

“Because of this, he is good in traffic,” says Leanne. “Even so, I am aware that all it takes is a plastic bag or a pheasant to fly out of a hedge, or a fast oncoming car, and it could be game over.”

Leanne described her local hacking as “monotonous, if you’re not prepared to venture on to or across the road.”

“Drivers on the whole are quite considerate on the back lanes,” she continues. “On the main roads however I do feel that driver see you and think ‘well, you’re taking the chance bringing your horse on this road, why should I be inconvenienced?’”

“I rode my horse the day after the incident with the cavalry horses and did think that some drivers had increased awareness of the need to be slow and safe around horses. Then, I got to the main road where I needed to walk 150 yards to get to a quiet back lane on the other side.

“None of the drivers on this road slowed down and it still felt like there was absolutely zero regard for their responsibility, as well as my own, to make sure we pass each other safely.”

Leanne was “horrified” to see the pictures of cavalry horses Vida and Quaker.

“I must admit my first thoughts were ‘great, the horses don’t belong on roads crew have just got more fodder’. We equestrians know that a horse has the ability to respond in flight regardless of training – but the non-equestrian public I feel will use this as an argument that horses do not belong on the road.”

“I hope it continues”

Athene Jordan, 52, and her partner live in Whitley Bay in the North East with their two horses Ollie (23) and Ted (15). Athene and her partner always ride in hi viz, and make use of a riding hat camera.

She says the couple has noticed a “massive change” in the actions of other road users.

“The farm where we keep our horses is based on a major A road, which we have to cross every time we go hacking,” she told H&H.

“Since the incident, we have noticed a massive change in drivers’ attitudes, immediately after. A lot of vehicles are giving us a much wider berth and slowing down more.

“I think it has given some drivers a wake-up call, showing how quickly horses can respond. I hope this continues, and people don’t forget what happened too quickly.”

Do you think the incident with the cavalry horses has improved road safety in your area? Email us your thoughts at hhletters@futurenet.com

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The two Life Guards horses who were injured in London last week have made “progress” following surgery, and are receiving “the very best of care,” the Army has confirmed.

On Wednesday (24 April) four horses, Vida, Trojan, Quaker and Tennyson, broke loose after they were spooked in Belgravia while they were out on morning exercise. It is understood builders were using a travelator with concrete on it, and some of the concrete came off and hit the floor. The horses were seen galloping through the streets, as police and the Army worked together to catch them.

Vida and Quaker underwent surgery that evening, and yesterday (29 April) an Army spokesman provided an update on their condition.

“Quaker, a Cavalry black, has shown significant improvement and progresses towards what is expected to be a full recovery,” he said.

“The other horse Vida, a grey, continues to make progress. He remains under close and careful professional veterinary observation as his wounds heal.”

The spokesman added that of the soldiers injured, two are still undergoing treatment in hospital “but will make a full recovery”. The remainder have returned to work.

“We are so thankful for everyone’s concern and expressions of support, and for all those involved in their care,” said the spokesman.

“Healing takes time – please be patient as we support that process. The soldiers and horses are all receiving the very best of care”.

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Two of the Life Guards horses who were injured after they got loose on the streets of London yesterday (24 April) have undergone surgery, the Army has confirmed.

A spokesman said that the four who broke loose, and were seen galloping through the capital, were named Vida, Trojan, Quaker and Tennyson. The horses were spooked in Belgravia, while they were out on morning exercise, where builders were using a travelator with concrete on it, and it is understood that some of the concrete came off and hit the floor.

“Two of the injured horses were operated on last night, with one transferred to an equine hospital,” an Army spokesman said. “All remaining horses are being closely observed.

“Our horses receive the highest standards of care, and those that did not undergo surgery are expected to return to duty in due course.”

The spokesman told H&H that it is understood the horses are “in good spirits”, including Vida, the grey who was pictured bleeding profusely.

“We want to thank everyone who has shown such kindness and concern towards our soldiers and horses. We will provide more updates soon.”

All three soldiers who were injured in the incident are expected to “recover fully and to return to duty”, the Army added.

The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is based at Hyde Park Barracks, and the horses are generally exercised in the park, an outdoor school, and on the roads. The stables at Hyde Park Barracks are on two storeys, with The Blues and Royals upstairs and The Life Guards underneath. The horses have regular holidays away from the city, as well as summer trips to Norfolk to enjoy a change of scenery – and beach rides.

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All the military horses who got loose on the streets of London have been recovered and all injured are having the appropriate care – after police officers “risked their own safety” to care for the injured horses.

Six soldiers and seven horses from the Life Guards were on exercise this morning (24 April) when they were spooked in Wilton Crescent, a street in the Belgravia area. Builders nearby were using a travelator with concrete on it, and it is understood that some of the concrete came off and hit the floor.

Five of the horses ran away and four soldiers were unseated, of whom three were injured. All were taken to hospital for assessment but none of their injuries are life-threatening.

“A number of military working horses became loose during routine exercise this morning,” an Army spokesman said. “All of the horses have now been recovered and returned to camp.

“A number of personnel and horses have been injured and are receiving the appropriate medical attention.”

The horses were seen galloping through the streets of the capital, one grey horse appeared to have been bleeding extensively, as police and the Army worked together to catch them. Two were caught by Metropolitan and City of London Police officers on the Highway, near Limehouse, about six miles away from Wilton Crescent.

Inspector Myles Hilbery, City of London Police said: “This was a dynamic incident and the courageous actions taken by police officers from our roads policing team prevented further harm and distress to the horses and members of the public. Police constables Lucy Hawes and Daniel McKeown risked their own safety to provide first aid to the injured and anxious horses. They kept the horses calm while waiting for a horsebox and veterinary team to arrive.

“PCs Brett Daniels and Chris Wilson took over management of traffic control on the busy arterial road enabling PCs Rob Bray and Shaun Gurney on motorbikes to create a clear path for the horses to be safely led into the horsebox and escorted back to the army barracks for urgent medical care.”

“Our thoughts are with those people and horses injured in the incident.”

A spokesman for the London Ambulance Service said: “We responded to several calls regarding an incident with horses on the loose in central London this morning. We sent multiple resources to the three scenes, treating four patients in total and taking them all to hospital. We have since been stood down.”

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The rider of a Household Cavalry horse travelled with him for eight hours on their last journey together – as 12 “extraordinary” service horses made an emotional joint retirement.

The Horse Trust’s Home of Rest welcomed nine horses from the Household Cavalry, two from the police and one from the Light Dragoons on the same morning, in a “moment of heartfelt farewells as well as exciting new beginnings”.

The first three to arrive at the Buckinghamshire sanctuary were Household Cavalry horses Kilmanjaro, Jaipur and Harvester, retiring after 14, 13 and 11 years respectively.

“Kilimanjaro is fondly known as Killer, yet his nickname is no precedent for his sweet nature,” a Horse Trust spokesman said. “His previous rider accompanied him to retirement, his love for him apparent judging by the eight-hour round trip he took from Hyde Park barracks to Melton Mowbray, where the newly retired Household Cavalry horses temporarily live, and back down south to our Home of Rest, where they journeyed together one last time.”

Six more from the regiment, Odin, Legolas, Knightsbridge, Kimberly, Iago and Incognito, arrived shortly afterwards.

“Beautiful 16.3hh Kimberly was the only mare out of nine, her calm nonchalant behaviour and refined appearance winning our hearts as soon as she stepped off the lorry,” the spokesman said. “Knightsbridge stood out as the only trumpeter of the group, with a beautifully distinctive grey coat, which wasn’t so grey a couple of hours after arrival as he became acquainted with his new paddock!

“It was quite the sight witnessing the group of cavalry blacks plus Knightsbridge galloping off into acres of fresh grass after their military headcollars were removed for one final time. Their new neighbours, including Charisma and her friend Elizabeth, HRH Princess Anne’s former charger, seemingly dropped 10 years off their ages from all the excitement.”

The spokesman said that the horses had had impressive careers, taking part in major generals’ inspections, Trooping the Colour, state openings of parliament, state visits, royal weddings and The late Queen’s funeral.

A spokesman for the Household Cavalry said: “Their faithful service deserves the utmost admiration, and they are all truly the most deserving of a well-earned retirement.”

Poppy, a 17.2hh Shire, arrived the same day, from the Lancashire Police mounted section, as did former Metropolitan Police horse Yachtsman, both of whom had retired owing to lameness.

“Poppy took part in all types of police patrol work, from large football matches and events to Remembrance Day parades, which was very fitting as she was named Poppy after Armistice Day, the Platinum Jubilee parade in May 2022, leading a full military parade with a full band behind her, and much more,” said the spokesman.

“Yachtsman was described as a ‘completely and utterly lovable thug who can be boisterous and clumsy at times, and very kind, affectionate, inquisitive… with very little spatial awareness!’ according to a spokesman for the Metropolitan mounted branch.”

The last to arrive was Sky, 25, who had spent four and a half years with the Light Cavalry Honourable Artillery Company, as part of the regiment’s ceremonial team.

“Sky has been a massive part of the team here at the Light Cavalry Honourable Artillery Company, and she has a group of wonderful supporting riders that love and adore her,” a spokesman for the regiment said. “At 25 there are clear signs that she is ageing, and we are grateful to be able to give her the dignified retirement that she deserves.”

The Horse Trust spokesman said it was an emotional day.

“There wasn’t a dry eye as the horses galloped together in new pastures, marking the beginning of their retirements,” he said. “We’re overjoyed to be able to provide these magnificent animals with a well-deserved rest, plenty of carrots and of course those highly adored neck scratches.”

Horse Trust chief executive Jeanette Allen added: “We’re thrilled to be able to provide a blissful retirement to this amazing group of equine public servants. We have lots of new personalities to get to know and that’s hugely exciting. These horses deserve their ease after a life of public service and we are truly honoured to be able to provide that for them all.”

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More than 150 horses from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery are enjoying their Christmas holidays in Leicestershire.

Juno and Apollo, the Household Cavalry drum horses, were the first to arrive at the Defence Animal Training Regiment (DATR) in Melton Mowbray, but their equine colleagues from the two regiments were not far behind.

The Army horses have a three-week winter holiday in the DATR fields every year.

“The horses’ stay at the DATR is one of many programmed breaks from ceremonial duties enjoyed by the horses throughout the year,” an Army spokesman said..

Equine veterinary officer Captain Bowman was there to meet the horses as they arrived.

“The horses are checked by the vet before they leave London and I carry out a second check on arrival to ensure they haven’t hurt themselves during the journey and that they are able to be safely turned out,” he said.

“Just like our soldiers, the horses need a well-deserved rest. It allows them to replenish their energy and lets them gallop and walk about freely which is important from a musculoskeletal point of view. It’s lovely to see them galloping and enjoying themselves in the field.”

The DATR has been involved with military animals since 1903, when it was a remount depot helping maintain requirement for trained horses in the British mounted regiments, including during the First World War.

Some of the horses in training are expected to make their public debut on the Major General’s Inspection in the middle of April.

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The former charger to the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment’s (HCMR) director of music, who served for 21 years before retiring to the green fields of The Horse Trust, has died aged 31.

Vainglory spent more than two decades in the Life Guards Squadron, taking part in many ceremonial events, including The Queen’s birthday parade and the Diamond Jubilee, and helped teach soldiers to ride in Windsor. He retired to The Horse Trust in 2016 to spend his twilight years at the charity in the Chiltern Hills.

He was an officer’s charger at the 2011 wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton – the now Prince and Princess of Wales – and also took part in musical rides.

“During his last few years at the HCMR, he was the director of music’s charger, where he was at the front leading the band because of his great attitude and confidence,” said a spokesman for The Horse Trust.

“He excelled himself when he attended the annual HCMR summer camp in Thetford where all the horses enjoy beach rides and take part in jumping events.”

The spokesman added that Vainglory became good friends with fellow equine military veterans Union and Yeti, who were also “long in the tooth and therefore missing plenty of their own teeth”.

“They were affectionately known as ‘the gummy bears’ due to this lack of teeth and during the winter months, they often received three meals a day to supplement their diet,” said the spokesman.

“Beyond their many dinner dates, these three boys were always found hanging out together in the field and were such cheeky, lovable characters.

“Whilst Vainglory coped well over this past summer with extra mashes and the long grass, very sadly we were struggling to maintain his weight towards the end of the summer and coming into the winter.

“Knowing that during the winter months, our lovely gummy bear brigade often struggle to keep weight on, it was a concern for us that Vainglory had already taken a downhill turn before the end of the good months.

“He has also been suffering anaemia alongside his problems with maintaining his weight and then suffered a mild colic, which wasn’t in itself life-threatening but made it clear to us that all of his underlying health problems were beginning to catch up with old Vainglory and that it wouldn’t be kind to send him into the difficult winter months knowing that he would continue to struggle.

“Therefore, the heartbreaking decision was made to say goodnight to Vainglory for the final time.”

The spokesman added: “While we will miss him dearly, we hope that he is reunited with his gummy bear veterans, Union, Yeti and so many others, on the other side of the rainbow bridge.

“We have loved every moment of caring for you in your retirement and let you go knowing that you will be at peace. Goodnight, dear Vainglory.”

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The Horse Trust has paid tribute to a resident Shire who will be remembered for having a “heart as big as his height”.

Wiggins was originally bought by the Household Cavalry with the intention of becoming a drum horse for the mounted band. This role would have involved Wiggins carrying two large drums, one on each side of his rider, who would play and ride during parades.

A Horse Trust spokesman said although Wiggins initially settled into training, it became clear he was a “nervous character”, especially in traffic, and it was deemed he was not suitable for the life of a drum horse.

“The decision was made to retire Wiggins to the beautiful rolling hills here in Buckinghamshire where he could live a quieter life and avoid his arch nemesis, the double decker bus!,” said the spokesman, adding that Wiggins arrived in 2016 aged seven, making him one of the charity’s youngest retirees.

“Once retired, Wiggins became a laidback chap who loved nothing more than a lie down and a munch on some hay – preferably at the same time. With his striking good looks, he was extremely popular and well known here, with everyone having a kind word or loving moment to share about him.”

The spokesman said it was recently noticed Wiggins, now aged 14, was “having some trouble” with his back legs when getting up, and would struggle to put weight on them, before “seemingly going back to normal”.

“After this was observed by the grooms, Wiggins was booked in with our vet Nicky. Unfortunately after a thorough investigation, it was found that Wiggins was suffering from advanced arthritis and hindlimb suspensory ligament degeneration,” said the spokesman.

“The deterioration of this ligament was also impacting Wiggins joints which was likely causing him a great deal of pain. Due to the quick progression of the degeneration and that Wiggins was already struggling in light of this painful condition, it was decided that the kindest thing to do was to say goodbye.”

The spokesman added that Wiggins “won the hearts of everyone he met with his handsome appearance and loveable personality”.

“He was immensely loved by all the team here and his goofy character and gentle nature will be sorely missed,” he said.

“He leaves behind a hole just as big as his gigantic heart but we let him go knowing that he will no longer feel pain and that when he crosses over the rainbow bridge, he can continue his work to comfort those of our residents who have already left us to reside in the pastures in the sky. Sleep tight Wiggins.”

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Top British riders and representatives of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment have thrown their weight behind the “biggest suicide awareness and prevention initiative the UK has ever seen”.

Oliver Townend, Mollie Summerland and Lewis Carrier, along with British Equestrian (BEF) eventing performance manager Dickie Waygood, joined mounted soldiers to carry the Baton of Hope on its last leg.

The unique baton has travelled the UK since 25 June as a “unifying symbol” aimed at reducing any stigma related to mental health issues, encourage conversation and “help people get better at asking questions”. Yesterday (6 July), it arrived in London, and the riders formed a guard of honour along Constitution Hill, The Mall and Horse Guards Parade.

Riders Minds partnered with the Baton of Hope; the equestrian mental health charity’s founder Victoria Wright said it was something “we knew we had to get involved with”.

“The mission of the baton is to bring about change in how we approach the subject of suicide, how we talk about it and how we support those affected by it,” she said.

“It is an honour to have a mounted section of the tour, in which the baton was carried on horseback from Hyde Park into Horse Guards Parade thanks to help of Richard Waygood. This is an important moment for the equestrian industry and we’re proud that Riders Minds and British Equestrian are able to work together to deliver a very important message.”

Oliver, who rode with his Tokyo Olympic team gold medal on, said it was a “huge privilege to be part of this important occasion”. Mollie, who has shared her own mental health journey openly on social media to help others, added: “It’s really important we’re here today, and to be able to talk about a topic that needs to be raised, have more awareness of and be spoken about more. To be able to ride through the streets of London and play a small part in helping suicide prevention – I hope it shows that even in the darkest times, there is hope and they are not alone.”

The baton, and the message it represents, was delivered to the Houses of Parliament that evening.

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A horse who once brought cheering crowds to their feet as he galloped with the Union Flag flying behind him has died aged 30 after a happy retirement.

The Horse Trust had to make the “extremely difficult decision to say goodbye” to Household Cavalry veteran Yeti, adding that it had been an honour to care for him for the last seven years.

Yeti had served with the Household Cavalry for a “magnificent” 18 years, taking part in ceremonial occasions including Trooping the Colour, state visits and The late Queen’s Life Guard.

“Yeti also travelled abroad, where he performed as part of the world-famous Household Cavalry musical ride in Europe and the Middle East,” a Horse Trust spokesman said.

“During the musical ride, four of the horses are ridden by the ‘Monkey Men’ and are trained to lie down as part of the performance and the finale includes these four horses carrying the flags of the United Kingdom. As Yeti was extremely fast, he was chosen to carry the Union Flag, and was the last horse to leave the arena at full gallop accompanied by the patriotic song Land of Hope and Glory. This prestigious accolade received many standing ovations from his adoring audiences.”

Yeti retired to the Horse Trust in April 2016 and became a favourite with staff and visitors.

“Although retired, he enjoyed going on his daily runs with Charlie and Normandy, his two field mates, and he was proud for being the fastest of the herd,” spokesman said.

“Yeti also brought joy to his supporters through being one of our dearest sponsor horses for many years. We are sure his sponsors will greatly miss him and save a special place in their hearts for him.”

Yeti developed arthritis in multiple joints, and although this was “expertly managed” by the Horse Trust, his pain levels increased recently and “despite our best efforts we were sadly not able to get him to a point where he could continue to have a good quality of life”.

“Therefore, we made the extremely difficult decision to say goodbye, accepting this was the right time for him,” the spokesman said.

“Yeti, it has been our absolute honour to serve you after all your years of service. Accepting you are no longer with us is so incredibly difficult, but we know you lived your life to the full and that you are now pain-free, galloping in your usual fast pace over the rainbow bridge with many of your former friends and colleagues.

“Rest in peace, our lovely Yeti, you have been a joy to know, love and care for, and you will be for ever missed by us all. The Yeti-shaped hole in all our hearts will take some time to heal.”

The charity’s Nicky Housby Skeggs told H&H she was lucky to work with Yeti when both were with the Household Cavalry.

“Fortunately he didn’t spend too much time in the clinic back then; he did keep us all very busy one morning when he got stuck between a couple of cars in Hyde Park!” she said.

“Later when I came to work at The Horse Trust I was delighted to find him enjoying his retirement. He suffered quite a few veterinary problems over his last few years and was a regular at the vets, thankfully most his problems were relatively minor and we did wonder whether he just enjoyed a trip to the clinic for a catch-up! In the end his arthritis caught up with him and very sadly, this time, he wasn’t able to bounce back.

“Yeti was an absolute gentleman in every sense. He was adored by all the vets who treated him, very popular with the farrier despite not having the best feet and a firm favourite of The Horse Trust team.”

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Anyone who has seen the Musical Ride of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery knows the skill, stamina and training required of both soldiers and horses to perform such an array of manoeuvres. Away from shows like Royal Windsor, The King’s Troop also takes the lead when parading with its guns at ceremonial events such as Trooping the Colour, despite the Household Cavalry being first in the Army’s order of precedence, and will be on display at the King’s coronation in May.

Founded in 1793, the Royal Horse Artillery fought in French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars right through to World War I, providing mobile fire support to the fast-moving cavalry. The cavalry was then mechanised during the interwar years, and 1946 saw the formation of the regiment as The Riding Troop, later renamed The King’s Troop after inspection by King George VI – The King’s Troop is now the only remaining mounted unit of the Royal Horse Artillery.

It was a gun carriage of the Royal Horse Artillery that bore the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, her father King George VI and Princess Diana from Buckingham Palace to Westminster. As the monarch’s Mounted Ceremonial Battery, the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery also fires Royal Salutes for grand occasions of State.

The regiment includes mounted gunners, gun team drivers, farriers, saddlers, tailors and logistics, and is based at Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich. There are 120 horses in the regiment, 13 of which are officers’ chargers and the rest “ride and drive”, usually sourced in Ireland before being brought over for training at the Defence Animal Training Regiment in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire.

While the Household Cavalry select only black horses (greys for the trumpeters and band), the horses of the King’s Troop are selected to be a certain type and range of colours. The six guns, each weighing 1.5t, are drawn by teams of six horses, each team called a sub-division, and range from light bays in A Sub-division, to blacks in F Sub-division.

The front horses are called leads and are the largest of the team at around 16hh, the centre horses are around 15.3hh and the wheelers at the back are shorter and stockier at 15.2hh. As with horses of the Household Cavalry, once the initial training is done, the horses (known at this stage as remounts) of the Royal Artillery then move to London to complete their training with the specialist equipment of the regiment.

While the Musical Ride is highly entertaining to watch, it is based on drills that had a real purpose on the battlefield. The 13-pounder guns used date back to between 1912 and 1918, and have seen active service in both World Wars; with the exception of the ‘George gun’, which is reserved exclusively for the funeral of the reigning monarch, all of the guns are used daily on parade, in training or at events.

At any one time, there are approximately 140 men and women in the King’s Troop. Having initially been allowed to apply in 1996, almost 50% per cent of the Troop are now women, making it one of the units with the highest balance by sex in the Army. When Major Erica Bridge became commanding officer of the King’s Troop in 2007, she was the first woman to do so in the history of the Household Division .

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Two showjumpers as you’ve never seen them before, on a day with the Household Cavalry

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In the run up to Royal Windsor Horse Show next month (11-14 May), organisers invited young British showjumpers Joe Stockdale and Jack Whitaker to go behind the scenes with the Household Cavalry at their Hyde Park Barracks in central London.

The duo were taken on a tour of the barracks, including the forge and the saddlery room, gaining an exclusive glimpse into the working life of these horses and the regiment.

As you can see in the video below, Joe and Jack had a lot of fun during their day.

“I feel like I’ve learned a lot,” says Joe, who has had plenty of success at Royal Windsor, including the under-25 grand prix and the puissance.

The five-star showjumpers were also invited to watch the Household Cavalry rehearse their musical ride, which they will be performing at this year’s Royal Windsor Horse Show.

“It’s great to see what goes on behind the shows and it’s a massive operation here,” states Jack. “Seeing all the staff – it’s similar with the big team we have at home.”

Joe adds: “I always enjoy watching them perform at Royal Windsor. So to be able to come behind the scenes with the Household Cavalry and see them here is really interesting for us.”

The pair were then challenged to dress in the Household Cavalry uniform, which took some getting used to.

“They don’t do kids’ sizes,” quips Joe as Jack struggles to button up a large coat.

Jack and Joe are Royal Windsor Horse Show ambassadors and the pair will both be in action again in this year’s CSI5* showjumping classes.

“To win the grand prix, you need the complete package of horse and rider,” explains Joe. “You need to be on your game.”

“With a bit of luck,” offers Jack. “Royal Windsor is so special, obviously being in Britain as a British rider it’s nice to canter into the arena and get a big cheer, especially if you win. It’s always great to be there, especially when the royal family are there.”

Joe emphasises the prestige that comes with competing at Royal Windsor.

“It’s a real honour to jump against the best in the world,” says Joe, who hopes to bring his championship horse Equine America Cacharel to this year’s event, while Jack will be in action on Equine America Valmy De La Lande.

“It’s one of the biggest grands prix,” he says. “To win would mean the world.”

Royal Windsor Horse Show takes place 11-14 May and H&H will be bringing you all the action from the four-day event both online and in the magazine.

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Horses have a long standing role in our armed forces and, while they are no longer found on the battlefield, their appearance at state events and shows here and abroad is an iconic part of British military heritage. Music is another key part of that heritage, and the Band of the Household Cavalry, comprised of musicians from The Royal Corps of Army Music, is perhaps the most well known union of military horses and music.

It was formed in 2014 by the union of The Band of The Life Guards with The Band of the Blues and Royals, the two mounted bands of the British Army. With over 60 musicians, it is the largest regular military band in the UK. Based in Windsor, its main tasks include Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle and performing for The King’s Birthday Parade.

The Band of the Household Cavalry: the drum horses

Perhaps one of the most familiar and loved sights in the Band of the Household Cavalry is the drum horse, with its vast kettledrums, magnificent banners and imposing stature. These horses take part in ceremonial occasions carrying two solid silver kettledrums, personally presented to the Royal Horse Guards in 1805 by King George III as testimony to their honourable and military conduct on all occasions.

Drum horses hold the rank of major, making them the most senior animals in the Army, and can trace their origins back to the Life Guards, formed in 1659 at the Court of the exiled King Charles II in Holland. Size, stamina and temperament are key when it comes to choosing drum horses.

Everything is done in walk for the drum horses, with the rider operating the reins from the stirrups, and the horse must be capable of carrying an adult in ceremonial gear, along with two, 25kg solid silver drums, as well as coping with the noise of crowds. Training takes years, as the horses are taught to cope with the demands of the role and assessed on their confidence to stand out in front of their band on their own.

Traditionally, they are usually a heavy horse breed (part-bred Shire or Clydesdale) and are purchased as four or five year olds. They have also all been geldings until the purchase of the 18.3hh mare Willa Rose in 2021.

Huw Murphy, of Dyfed Shire Horse Farm in Pembrokeshire, and breeder of Willa Rose, first supplied a drum horse to the Household Cavalry in 2008.

“That horse became Mercury, and he served for a decade before returning home to the farm before his death in 2021,” says Huw. “We had a visit from the [then] Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, in 2018 and one of our horses, Red, took Camilla for a cart ride round the farm – he must have impressed her because the Household Cavalry purchased him in 2019!”

Red’s official name is Apollo and Huw says he is highly rated as a drum horse. When the Household Cavalry Riding Master next returned to Dyfed Shire Horse Farm, it was the temperament, stature and presence of homebred Willa Rose that caught his eye during a beach ride.

“She’s making great progress and we’re hoping she will out on ceremonial duties soon,” says Huw.

Once passed as suitable, the drum horses receive their official name from the monarch. A selection of names are sent for the monarch to choose from, and are usually based on battle honours, or characters from ancient/classical history – previous names chosen include Pompeii, Perseus and Cicero; the latter was bought by the Household Cavalry after The late Queen saw him pulling a milk float in Scotland.

The Band of the Household Cavalry: state trumpeters

Also familiar at ceremonial events are the elegant grey horses of the state trumpeters. Always grey, a colour chosen to help mark them out in the chaos of a battlefield where the trumpeters would have communicated orders, trumpeter horses, like their black counterparts in the Household Cavalry, are usually at least 16.2hh and have traditionally come from Ireland.

State trumpeters perform at high profile events such as royal weddings and the State Opening of Parliament, and the musicians are drawn from all ranks of the Band of the Household Cavalry. All have joined The Royal Corps of Army Music and attended riding school before being selected for the role, where they are expected to memorise up to 22 different fanfares.

Their distinctive state dress of gold coat and blue jockey caps is only worn when senior royalty are present. This state dress is the oldest continually worn uniform in the British Army, purchased by the Lord Mayor of London for the restoration of King Charles II in 1660.

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Household Cavalry enjoy a blast on Holkham beach

The ride on Holkham beach is one of the highlights of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment’s annual north Norfolk training

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The Household Cavalry was formed by the union of the two most senior regiments in the British Army, the Life Guards and the Blues and Royals, and is divided into the Household Cavalry Regiment and the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment. Both regiments have a long and distinguished history; the Life Guards were formed as the bodyguard of King Charles II while in exile on the continent in the 1600s, eventually escorting him back to England for the restoration in 1660.

The Blues and Royals was formed in 1969 by the amalgamation of the Royal Horse Guards and the Royal Dragoons (1st Dragoons), both of which have their origins in the mid-17th Century. The blue livery, which gives rise to part of the name, was adopted while under the command of the Earl of Oxford and became known as Oxford Blues. Now, the Blues and Royals have blue tunics, red plumes and black sheepskins, while the Life Guards have red tunics, white plumes in the helmets and white sheepskins over the saddles.

After World War II, a mounted squadron was formed from each regiment to be stationed at Hyde Park Barracks in London to carry out ceremonial duties, now known as the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment. These duties include the daily King’s Life Guard, which provides mounted and dismounted sentries at Horse Guards, the official entrance to St James’s and Buckingham Palace.

While the Household Cavalry Regiment is the operational unit, known as armoured reconnaissance experts, the Mounted Regiment is the regiment’s ceremonial face and conducts mounted State and public duties in London. These include Trooping the Colour, the State Opening of Parliament and visits by foreign heads of state, as well as events across the UK and abroad to represent the monarch and the nation.

Those joining the regiment are known as mounted dutymen, and are trained over 20 weeks to ride and look after a horse, as well as prepare for parade. Both officers and soldiers normally alternate between the operational and ceremonial regiments to provide a varied career.

The Household Cavalry horses

The horses of the Household Cavalry, known as Cavalry Blacks, have been guarding the royal family and taking part in ceremonial occasions since the restoration of King Charles II in 1660.

Traditionally Irish-bred with a mixture of thoroughbred and Irish Draught breeding, the ideal Cavalry Black is at least 16.2hh (officers’ chargers should be at least 17hh and preferably completely black with no white markings) with enough bone and the correct conformation and movement to carry a soldier in full ceremonial gear and tack.

Young horses joining the regiment are known as remounts and undergo a thorough training programme at the Household Cavalry Training Wing in Windsor, starting with being backed to ride and learning the basic paces before being introduced to road work. Then begins the preparation for parade life, with some ceremonial tack being introduced to allow them to get used to the feel of it. Once this is complete, the horses are moved to the Knightsbridge barracks for the last stages of training.

Like drum horses, the Cavalry Blacks are given an official name once their training is complete. Famous former Cavalry Black horses include Sefton, who survived terrible injuries caused by an IRA bomb in Hyde Park, and Thomas, so known for nuzzling his handlers that new recruits were asked “Have you kissed Thomas?”. Thomas who went on to serve for 19 years at events, including The Queen’s Gold and Diamond Jubilees in 2002 and 2012, the Royal Wedding in 2011, and the London 2012 Olympics, before being retired in 2012, aged 22.

Every year, the horses are given a break from their city duties and move to Holkham in Norfolk, where they are exercised on the beach, as well as enjoying time as grass. This isn’t just a holiday, however; the time in Norfolk is used to practice riding and military skills, as well as strengthen the bond between the soldiers and their horses.

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The ride on Holkham beach is one of the highlights of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment’s annual north Norfolk training

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Tributes have been paid to a 20-year-old mare with a “zest for life” who served in the Household Cavalry for nine years.

During her career Luna was used for The late Queen’s Life Guard duties and state occasions, including The Queen’s birthday parade, the Lord Mayor’s Show and the wedding of the Prince and Princess of Wales in 2011.

In 2019 Luna retired to the Horse Trust owing to lameness issues.

“She had a true zest for life and was much loved for her fun and feisty streak which always kept the grooms on their toes,” said a Horse Trust spokesman.

“During her retirement she also formed an incredibly sweet bond with retired Metropolitan Police horse, Orla. The two became inseparable and certainly brought out the cheeky side in each other. One of their well-known traditions was to do an early morning sprint, always ensuring they were first to the gate for the morning feeds.”

The spokesman said the Horse Trust team was “devastated” when Luna developed a “very nasty” hoof abscess and the infection tracked up her leg, causing a lot of pain.

“Despite intensive veterinary treatment, including an epidural, we were unable to get the infection under control and keep her comfortable,” he said.

“It was then that the team had to make the extremely difficult decision that morning to say goodbye to our dear friend in the safety and loving care of the equine care team.”

The spokesman added that Luna had a “truly wonderful” retirement.

“Luna, you were a truly beautiful spirit, who will be desperately missed by all who knew you and by those you served,” he said.

“Thank you for giving us four magical years with you and for your dedicated service while with the Household Cavalry. Though our hearts are breaking from the loss, we take comfort in knowing you are galloping fast and free over that rainbow bridge.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The British Army’s horses are back from their Christmas holidays and starting their transformation from hairy mud monsters to sleek steeds ready for The King’s coronation.

Horses from the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment have been enjoying “semi-wild” down time at the Defence Animal Training Regiment in Melton Mowbray since early December.

This week, they were rounded up, given a thorough health inspection and were loaded on to horseboxes to be transported back to London ready for their spring glow-up.

Please be patient for the video below to load. Credit: Army in London.

Lance Corporal of Horse, Owen Watkins from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, is the equitation officer overseeing the move and rehabilitation process for the Blues and Royals in Hyde Park Barracks.

“It was important that the horses were given an opportunity to rest and recuperate in the countryside,” he said.

“Moving large numbers of horses out of the city to run free over the festive period also allowed the majority of the regiment to take some holiday.

“It gave us all the chance to recharge our batteries after what had been an incredibly busy and unprecedented year.”

The horses will undergo a seven-week reconditioning programme – they will be clipped, shoes will go back on, tack will be refitted and they will start a fitness programme to bring them back into work.

The regiments’ exact roles in the coronation have not yet been revealed, and they have a busy summer of ceremonial duties. They will be taking part in the first King’s birthday parade in June, the King’s Troop will be firing royal salutes for state occasions, and the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment will be carrying out the daily King’s Life Guard at Horse Guards in Whitehall.

It was also confirmed today that horses and soldiers from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment will be taking part in the opening ceremony at CHIO Aachen in June.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The “magnificent” Household Cavalry is to wow thousands of spectators in Germany as Britain is the official partner country of this year’s CHIO Aachen.

Organisers of the World Equestrian Festival (23 June to 2 July) say the partnership with Britain is a “wish come true”. The event hosts top-level jumping, dressage, eventing, four-in-hand driving and vaulting, as well as supporting events, and features a “spectacular” opening ceremony on 27 June.

It was announced today (1 February) that the Household Cavalry’s musical ride will form part of the traditional ceremony, which is staged in the main arena in front of 40,000 spectators.

“The theme of the show is traditionally dominated by the partner country,” a spokesman for CHIO Aachen said. “And to this end, the unique charm of Great Britain offers a huge and wide spectrum of historical, cultural and modern opulence that will above all make the main stadium in Aachen one thing on the evening of 27 June: very British!”

CHIO Aachen sports director Birgit Rosenberg said the theme for the evening is All you Need is Love, from the Beatles song.

“Because the Brits love their musical heroes – and they love equestrian sport, which enjoys an extremely cherished tradition that dates back many years,” the spokesman said, adding that the Household Cavalry’s musical ride will be staged at other times as well as the opening ceremony.

“For us it is a great honour presenting ourselves to the crowd in Aachen in one of the biggest equestrian sport arenas in the world,” said Daniel Evans, equitation warrant officer of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

Britain will also be represented by the Shetland Pony Grand National, “splendid, typically British carriages” and plenty of music, not to mention top British horses and riders. The partner country will also be the central theme for both Horse & Symphony concerts (23 and 24 June), which will include a performance by double world champion Lottie Fry.

“Beyond this, the typical British flair will be noticeable all over the show grounds as well as in the city itself,” the spokesman said.

British Equestrian chief executive Jim Eyre added that the Brits enjoy visiting Aachen every year.

“The fact that we are taking over the role of the partner country this year is a wonderful opportunity to show what our homeland has to offer,” he said.

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Many soldiers will be on duty over Christmas this year – but most of the Army’s horses are enjoying a “long restorative break in the English countryside”.

Hundreds of horses from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery have been sent to enjoy a month’s holiday in fields over Christmas.

The horses’ shoes have been taken off and they have been taken out of town for some “horse heaven”.

“In the coming weeks they’ll have the time of their lives, getting as muddy as possible and fat on grass, and relaxing,” an Army spokesman told H&H.

“It has been an unprecedented year for the soldiers and horses in London. Millions joined the Household Division as they trooped the colour on the Platinum Jubilee weekend and over 4 billion people across the world tuned in to see those same troops honour Her Majesty one last time on her funeral procession. Since then, the Army has supported the first state visit to the UK since the Covid pandemic, The King’s birthday, and a series of high-profile defence diplomacy events.”

The Army has shared picture of the military horses bucking, galloping, rolling and relaxing in herds.

Trooper Bridges from The Blues and Royals will be on duty, but knows how important the rest is for the horses, who are enjoying their time away.

“Our military working horses have worked so hard this year with an unprecedented series of ceremonial events; from the Platinum Jubilee to The Queen’s funeral, The King’s birthday and the South African state visit,” he said.

“They really do deserve a festive break.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The Queen’s artist in residence for her Platinum Jubilee said the saddest part is that she will never see the full collection of work – but he hopes he has done her justice.

Freddy Paske, a former member of the Light Dragoons who was discovered thanks to the paintings he did from his tank in Afghanistan, was Her Majesty’s artist in the last year of her life, covering so many of the horses that were her passion. His work from this year is on display at Gallery Different, 14 Percy Street, Fitzrovia, London between 22-27 November.

Freddy told H&H he has always ridden, but also always wanted to go into the military.

“My father was in the Household Cavalry but I was in the Light Dragoons, which is similar, without the ceremonial role,” he said. “I played polo and hunted with them, which is the much better side of equestrian life in the military! I see how hard they work to produce and turn out those horses; it’s almost seven days a week in Knightsbridge, very different to hunting and playing polo.

“With the Army, I’ve always had this passion, it’s plagued me. My poor mother had a nightmare trying to get me to wear normal clothes; I remember at Pony Club junior camp, insisting on wearing camouflage, and her trying to get me into jodhpurs and a ratcatcher, but fancy dress was brilliant. We chopped down a bush and dressed the Shetland pony as a tank, with me on top dressed as a soldier.”

After university, Freddy went on tour, of Helmand province in Afghanistan in 2012, then Bosnia in a different role in 2014.

“It’s funny; it’s been said before that tours are 90% extreme boredom and 10% sheer terror, a bizarre mix, but I was very lucky,” he said. “Others weren’t but from a selfish point of view, that was probably the launch of my art career. In Afghanistan, a war artist came to visit us and I was chatting to her and showed her some of my sketchbooks. To decompress, normally before evening orders, I would get out of sketchbook and paint the scenery in front of me from my tank. It helped retain a bit of myself, and when the artist put on an exhibition, she said she’d love to exhibit some of my work as well. Amazingly, everything sold, and that was the start.”

Freddy started painting commissions of horses, then approached the Household Cavalry about being the regiment’s artist in residence for a year, a coveted role. He did the same for Tattersalls and the Jockey Club, neither of which, he believes, had had one before, then the Household Cavalry asked him to come back to the role for The Queen’s jubilee year.

“That was amazing as I don’t think they’ve had anyone back before and it was such a privilege,” he said. “I started at the Royal Mews and met the lovely Crown Equerry Toby Brown. He said it was a great plan but we needed to run it past the Queen. I wasn’t prepared but my poor printers turned round a portfolio the next day to be taken to The Queen and a week later, he said “You’ll be delighted to know, The Queen has approved the role”, and that’s how it was born. Gosh, what a year.”

Freddy went to Oman to visit the Royal Cavalry, and to Paris to see the Garde Republicaine; both took part in the Platinum Jubilee celebrations at Royal Windsor Horse Show. He covered the show and the celebrations there and the official jubilee weekend celebrations. He also, unexpectedly, covered Her Majesty’s funeral processions.

“There was pressure but I can’t convey how much of an honour it was,” he said. “To be approved by The Queen, going to places I’d never have been. The saddest thing is that it was all done in The Queen’s honour and she never got to see the full collection. It was such a privilege and I hope I’ve done it proud.”

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Three Household Cavalry horses who were seen trotting loose in central London during rush-hour have been recovered safe and well, the Army has confirmed.

The horses were caught on video trotting through heavy morning traffic in the Kensington area of west London on Monday (10 October).

The horses’ bridles were on but they were not being ridden at the time they got free, a spokesman for the regiment told H&H.

“Three horses from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment broke free from their handlers while being led during morning exercise, and recovered to Hyde Park Barracks,” the spokesman said.

“No person or animal was injured but of course we take the safety of all concerned seriously.”

The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is based at Hyde Park Barracks, and the horses are generally exercised in the park, an outdoor school, and on the roads. The stables at Hyde Park Barracks are on two storeys, with The Blues and Royals upstairs and The Life Guards underneath. The horses have regular holidays away from the city, as well as summer trips to Norfolk to enjoy a change of scenery – and beach rides.

The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is the ceremonial face of the regiment, conducting mounted state and public duties in London, and serving as the guardians of the monarch.

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The Horse Trust has said a heartbroken farewell to a “dear friend” in former Household Cavalry horse Auriol, who has been put down aged 27.

The “incredibly loving” 16.3hh gelding retired to the charity in 2011 after his mounted regiment service, during which he took part in ceremonial occasions including state visits and Trooping the Colour. He also performed in the Household Cavalry musical ride, which “took him to many exotic locations around the world”. His final duty was as part of the Horse Trust’s 125th anniversary parade in 2011.

“Auriol enjoyed a restful and happy retirement with us,” a spokesman for the charity said. “He was much loved by the grooms and became well known for his extremely cheeky yet loving personality. A particular fan of field change days, Auriol was often the first to the gate ready to gallop to pastures new.”

Auriol formed a “very special and heartwarming bond” with former Greater Manchester Police horse Fairfax. The pair were inseparable until Fairfax’s death.

“Sadly, Auriol had suffered with arthritis for some time and our vet tried several different combinations of painkillers to help him continue to live a happy and peaceful life,” the spokesman said. “We were so pleased that we managed to get his pain under control and that he had returned to enjoying his time with his friends and the grooms.”

But last month Auriol sustained a severe bout of colic that would have required surgery. This was felt not to be in his best interests owing to his other conditions, so “the kindest thing to do for him was to say goodbye”.

“Auriol, words simply can’t describe how heartbroken we are to say farewell to you, dear friend,” the spokesman said. “You have touched the lives of all who knew you, both in your career and in your retirement.

“Accepting you are no longer with us is so incredibly difficult but we know you lived your life to the fullest and that you are now pain-free galloping over the rainbow bridge with Fairfax. It has been both a joy and an honour to serve you after your years of dedicated service.

“Rest in peace Auriol, you will be sorely missed.”

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The story of the four men and seven horses killed in a bomb attack in London — and those who survived — is the topic of a documentary being made 40 years later.

Thread Films is behind the account of the IRA attack on the Household Cavalry on 20 July 1982. The Queen’s mounted guard of 15 soldiers was on its way to change the guard, near Buckingham Palace, when a remote-controlled device was triggered, blasting nails and shrapnel.

Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles, who was commanding the regiment at the time, said: “It was probably the saddest moment of my military career. I sort of worked myself up into quite a thing. Could I have done something better? Should we have done something better?

“The general public reacted in a wonderful way. But it didn’t bring the dead soldiers back.”

Many more were injured, including Metropolitan Police Horse Echo and Household Cavalry mounts Sefton and Yeti. Sefton, who became a public hero, suffered 38 wounds in his body and a piece of metal had severed a main artery in his neck.

Thanks to expert veterinary care, he recovered and returned to duty, and was retired to the Horse Trust aged 21, where he died in 1993.

As the 40th anniversary of the atrocity approaches, Thread Films has been capturing survivors’ memories.

Steve Sullivan, who was part of the guard that day, said: “I never forget the feeling when that bomb went off. It was like having every little bit of oxygen drawn out of your body.

“It’s that feeling you get just before you pass out. And it’s an emptiness. It just sucks the life out of you. Awful feeling. Horrible.

“It still hurts. There’s not been one day of my life since that day that I haven’t remembered something that went on. It’s always, always been part of my life ever since then.”

The company is appealing for help to finish the film, and “commemorate this extraordinary event the way it deserves; both for future generations and for those who lived through it”.

Director and former cavalryman Mauricio Gris said: “I couldn’t believe that the human story hasn’t been told before. At the time, horses like Sefton became the focus of the nation’s anger, resilience and hope. But the story of the men who cared for those horses became a secondary narrative. I want to capture the human side of this tragedy and explore what it means to those involved 40 years on.”

The company has started a crowd-funding page to finish the film, with rewards including a behind-the-scenes champagne tour of the Household Cavalry museum at Horse Guards.

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A “hero” Household Cavalry horse who was the longest serving military horse in history has died in retirement aged 30.

Viscount, fondly known as “Biscuit, retired to the Horse Trust in 2017 after serving his country for 21 years and 11 months. During this time he took part in a variety of duties including working as an officer’s charger in major state parades, escorting royalty and playing an integral role in training new recruits.

“Viscount’s last four ceremonial seasons saw him carrying the musicians from the band of The Household Cavalry, an honour only the steadiest and most consistent horses would be trusted with. These horses must be ridden with limited instruction as the musicians predominately give direction using their legs whilst carrying their instruments,” said a Horse Trust spokesman.

“He mastered this magnificently, as was expected from such a hardworking and composed horse.”

The Horse Trust was “honoured” to welcome the gelding and he enjoyed five “well-deserved” years of retirement.

“Viscount was a joy to look after and could often be found in his field with fellow military friends, Auriol and Aquaba,” he said.

“We were devastated when recently Viscount developed sudden neurological signs. This was a complication of pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction [PPID]. Our team had been carefully managing his condition until that point with medication but sadly it reached a stage where it was no longer treatable and the kindest thing for us to do for our hero horse was to say goodnight to him one last time.”

The spokesman said the whole team was “incredibly sad” to say goodbye to Viscount.

“We knew that sadly it was his time and that the greatest service we could give him in return for all his years of service to our country was to let him pass away peacefully,” he said.

“Goodnight Viscount, we miss you ever so much but we are so grateful to have known and cared for you throughout your twilight years. Sleep tight now Biscuit, you were a true hero and you’ve more than earned your rest. We will never, ever forget you.”

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The Household Cavalry Foundation has been named as official charity for the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials 2022 (1 to 4 September).

The Household Cavalry Foundation is the official charity for the Household Cavalry and provides charitable and pastoral welfare support to serving soldiers, operational casualties, veterans and dependants. It also supports its retired horses.

“We are delighted to be supporting the important work undertaken by the Household Cavalry Foundation,” said Burghley Horse Trials director Martyn Johnson.

“The origins of eventing evolved through the training of cavalry horses, meaning there are strong and long-standing links between our sport and the work of the British Army’s cavalry regiments.

“In this jubilee year, when the horses and soldiers of the regiment will be at their ceremonial best, it seemed like a very appropriate time to be supporting the foundation’s work.”

Charity director Giles Stibbe added: “We hope that our partnership with Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials will help us to raise awareness of the essential work the foundation does, helping those who have served our country, both human and equine, in their time of need.

“The charity also works to ensure the history and heritage of the regiment is preserved by our museums and archives.”

Spectators will be able to make a contribution to the foundation when buying tickets and at the event, where they will also be able to meet some of the Household Cavalry horses.

Title sponsor for Bolesworth dressage

Bloomfields Horseboxes is the title partner of Bolesworth’s first standalone international dressage show (24 to 26 June), as the discipline returns to the venue following a three-year break.

National and international classes will run across three arenas over three days. The national classes will run from prelim to advanced, plus para, youth and young horse (Nexgen) competitions. International classes will be held at big and small tour.

“We are delighted to be strengthening our relationship with Bloomfields Horseboxes, one of the UK’s leading horsebox brands, at the same time as welcoming riders and fans of the sport back to Bolesworth,” said Bolesworth managing director Nina Barbour.

Dodson & Horrell will return as title sponsors of the Dodson & Horrell Bolesworth International (29 June to 3 July), which follows the dressage show.

Official gin partner

Cowdray Park Polo Club has signed a three-year official gin partnership deal with No.3 Gin.

The spirit, curated by Berry Bros. & Rudd, will be the exclusive gin served to club members at polo events.

The collaboration is strengthened by Cowdray Estate’s agreement to stock No.3 Gin at its farm shop and cafe, and as the premium gin at Cowdray Park Golf Club.

Emma Fox, chief executive of Berry Bros. & Rudd, said: “I am thrilled that our award-winning No.3 Gin is the exclusive gin partner for Cowdray Park Polo Club. The partnership marks a new chapter in our pursuit of perfection to become the definitive luxury gin and we look forward to connecting discerning drinkers at this iconic polo location, with No.3 Gin.”

Andrew Swaffield, chairman of Cowdray Park Polo Club, added: “Berry Bros. & Rudd is a

distinguished British brand with an illustrious history. We are delighted to be partnering with their critically acclaimed No.3 Gin which will be enjoyed by patrons, players, members and visitors as a perfectly refreshing accompaniment to a day at the home of British polo.”

New deal for Georgie Spence

British five-star event rider Georgie Spence has signed a partnership deal with Swedish clothing brand Stierna Equestrian Sportswear.

“As a professional rider I spend all day, every day, outside and in the saddle,” said Georgie. “Comfortable clothing that is both cooling in the summer and warm and dry in the winter is a key element to success. Equally, I want to look smart for both myself, my owners, my team and when representing sponsors.

“Stierna delivers on all fronts, offering the very best technical fabrics and designs. I’m looking forward to working closely with Helena and Robert at Stierna Equestrian Sportswear over

the coming year and am extremely grateful for their support.”

Robert Kos, head of marketing and sustainability at Stierna, added: “With the addition of Georgie, Stierna Equestrian Sportswear deepens the commitment to the eventing scene with another equestrian athlete with both great horsemanship and great sportsmanship.

“She is joining a team with some of the top event riders in the world.

“We have been missing the competition scene and we look forward to a new season where all our riders have the chance of showing the results of the hard work that has been put in during training days in all kinds of weather conditions. Just the way we like it.”

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A Household Cavalry “veteran” who served for “a magnificent” 20 years and was retired at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) has been put down aged 29.

Irish sports horse Yeoman joined the Horse Trust in 2017 following his military career with the Life Guards. During his service, he took part in parades including Trooping the Colour, the 2011 royal wedding and The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012. Yeoman also starred in the Household Cavarly’s musical ride as one of the horses that would lie down during the display.

The Horse Trust’s director of equine care Mark Avison, who worked with Yeoman during his military career, said he was “not the easiest horse to ride”.

“He only knew one speed and that was flat out! Hence he was a capable jumper in the regimental showjumping and hunter trial competitions, and only for the more experienced riders within the regiment,” he said.

“Yeoman became a valuable asset to the Household Cavalry’s famous musical ride. I was fortunate to have him on the ride that represented the regiment and the armed forces in the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Switzerland and the UK, which included Royal Windsor Horse Show, Olympia and HOYS, where I had the privilege of leading him out of the arena on his retirement.”

A Horse Trust spokesman said Yeoman was an “incredibly gentle and kind” horse who often featured in the charity’s visiting days, and was part of the Christmas open day parade. But recently, he was found looking a “little quiet”, with a very high temperature.

“While they were waiting for our vet to arrive he was nursed lovingly with hot mashes and given a nice fluffy bed,” he said, adding that it was suspected the gelding was suffering from peritonitis.

“We are so sad to report that upon arrival of our vet, Yeoman was very sick and despite the best efforts from the whole team, he tragically deteriorated and the kindest thing to do for our black beauty was to say goodnight to him one last time.”

“We know this news will be equally as upsetting to our visitors as it is to all of us at the Horse Trust and in the Household Cavalry. Yeoman was a true gentle giant and really was one of those very special horses that we came to adore so incredibly much.”

The spokesman said Yeoman will be missed for an “incredibly long time” and had “such a special place in so many hearts”.

He was so often on the yard for the team and visitors to say hello to and put a smile on all our faces,” he said.

“Yeoman, we are so incredibly sad to have had to say goodbye to you after just short of five wonderful years loving and caring for you. You were truly a one of a kind horse with such a gentle and kind soul who had the most incredible career and a loving and peaceful retirement. Accepting you are no longer with us is so incredibly difficult but we know you lived your life to the full and that you are now pain-free, galloping over the rainbow bridge to many of your former friends and colleagues. Rest in peace now Yeoman, you have been a joy to know, a joy to love and care for, and you will be for ever missed by us all. The Yeoman-shaped hole in our hearts will take some time to heal.”

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Tributes have been paid to the “ultimate Household Cavalry horse”, who has died in retirement aged 33.

Union retired to the Horse Trust in 2012 after 17 years’ military service. During his career the gelding took part in every Trooping the Colour from 1995 as either a trooper or band horse, and attended “countless” state openings of parliament and state visits in London and Windsor. He was part of The Queen’s Golden Jubilee celebrations and attended the 2011 wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

A spokesman for the Horse Trust said Union, fondly known as Onion, had the right temperament for an experienced rider or a beginner, and he was a favourite of the corporal major. He was remembered by many for appearing on television in 2010 during The Queen’s birthday parade with his tongue out while standing behind Her Majesty.

“Onion was described as the ultimate Household Cavalry horse. When speaking to those who knew him, the flurry of praise and outpouring of love for him is truly heart-warming and just shows how incredibly special he was to both his former military colleagues and to all of us here at the Horse Trust,” said the spokesman.

Mark Avison, the charity’s director of equine care, knew Union during the gelding’s working career and retirement.

“Everyone who had the privilege of riding Union on ceremonial parades would have thought they had won the lottery,” he said. “With the ride like sitting in your luxury armchair, slippers on and putting on your favourite film, knowing that once you and Union would walk out and through the famous ceremonial gates at Hyde Park Barracks and turn right you didn’t have to worry about anything else.

“He wouldn’t put a hoof wrong, in every ceremonial parade, commitment and every position possible. He was one in a million.”

The spokesman said during his retirement Union had been treated for arthritis, but he was recently suffered a bout of colic.

“The colic on its own wasn’t too serious, but the combination of this with his arthritis made him very miserable and the incredibly sad decision had to be made to let him go,” he said.

“Union had such an incredible working career followed by such a long and leisurely retirement and one that he deserved so much. We are so honoured to have had the pleasure of caring for him for close to a decade of his extraordinary life.”

The spokesman said the news of Union’s death would be “devastating” for the charity’s supporters, adding that the gelding was “such a big character” and one of the kindest horses.

“He was well known to many of our supporters and he became a firm favourite with the public on our visiting days over the many years, as he also had with so many of our grooms and the wider Horse Trust team,” he said.

“Union, we cannot put into words how devastated we are to have had to say goodbye to you. We knew this day would come but somehow every year you pushed that day back and we had become so accustomed to you defying the odds and continuing to live your retirement far into your twilight years.

“You are missed so incredibly much and we know your friends like Yeti and Empress will also be missing your presence, as we do every day too. Sleep tight now Union and gallop free over the rainbow bridge to so many of your friends and colleagues. You are a heartbreaking loss for us to take and the Horse Trust will not be the same without you. RIP Union, you really were, like Mark Avison said, one in a million.”

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A “superstar” mare who served in the army for 16 years and made headlines when she was pictured “slobbering” on The Queen, has been put down in retirement aged 31.

Talavera retired to the Horse Trust in April 2018 after her military career with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards (SCOTSDG) regiment in which she was a drum horse and one of 10 official regimental mascots of the British Army. Prior to this, she underwent training with the Household Cavalry and was presented to SCOTSDG by The Queen at a parade in London.

During her career, the 18hh mare carried out ceremonial duties including representing SCOTSDG and the British Army to the wider public.

“Talavera was a well-travelled lady, with her regiment being posted to Bad Fallingbostel in Germany, a place where she spent most of her military career,” said a Horse Trust spokesman.

“In 2015 Talavera returned with her regiment to Scotland and moved to Leuchars where she remained before making the journey to us in rural Buckinghamshire. While at Leuchars, Talavera was once again reunited with The Queen during her visit to the Fide base in 2015. A photo of Talavera slobbering on Her Majesty made the front page of the Daily Telegraph the following day!”

The spokesman said Talavera suffered a bout of lymphangitis this year and the underlying cause was found to be a piece of infected bone.

“Talavera was being lovingly managed by the team and was in the company of her best friend Polly to help her remain as comfortable as possible,” he said.

“Sadly, although it appeared the treatment was working, the infection recently flared up. Talavera then developed severe colic. It was a heartbreaking decision to make but it was with an incredibly heavy heart that we decided the kindest thing to do for our beautiful black beauty was to say goodnight to her one final time.”

The spokesman said the charity is “incredibly thankful” to have been able to provide the “stunning” mare with three and a half years of retirement, adding that she had provided “so much joy and love”.

“Standing at 18hh, Talavera was a true gentle giant and a much-loved member of the Horse Trust family. Her profile featured in a book titled ‘Scotland’s Animal Superstars’ and a superstar is certainly what she was,” he said.

“Sleep tight Talavera, we already miss you so dearly but we know you are galloping free over the rainbow bridge to former friends and colleagues. RIP our beautiful girl.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The new drum horse in the Household Cavalry musical ride, currently appearing at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), had “big shoes to fill”, but is “performing immaculately”.

Fellow Shire Perseus has been learning the job fast as there was a gap to fill. Captain Will Long of the Life Guards, officer in charge of the musical ride, and drum horse groom Trooper Kieran Philpott talked H&H through the drum horses’ training process.

“Perseus had big shoes to fill,” Capt Long said. “Our Shires go through the training, and he’d been doing that, and on The Queen’s birthday parade, but he’s now been promoted to our number one.

“He’s been having some pretty intense training, and practising with the Household Cavalry band and the drums, the intensity of the music — as well as being the centre of attention.”

The 13-year-old gelding was slightly spooked at first by the huge atmosphere of the Andrews Bowen international arena; it was his first time anywhere like it.

“You can put the noise through a speaker system but you can’t train for the vibrations of the crowd clapping,” Capt Long explained. “It’s quite an intimidating atmosphere — for the showjumpers, everyone stays quiet till they’ve finished but with him, he’s the centre of attention from the start — but he’s done wonderfully.”

Capt Long said the whole routine depends on the beat and cues from the drum horse and drummer, who uses foot reins to communicate with his horse.

“There have been some interesting training moments when in London, getting him used to the sound and weight of the drums led to some interesting training days!” he aid. “But Perseus has been immaculate since then.”

Trooper Philpott, who described Perseus as a “gentle giant who loves attention”, explained that the training takes about four years. The drum horses are introduced to saddles first.

“Then we start long-reining, to get them used to the foot reins,” he said, adding that the next step is a drum saddle, without the drums, and then “standing-out training”, where the horse learns to stand with his front feet slightly forward and hind legs further back, for better weight distribution in preparation for carrying the drums.

The horse will then learn to carry the copper drums, weighing 10kg each, first without and then with a rider, and lots of rewards. The final step is carrying the silver drums, the Blues and Royals set at 50kg each and the Life Guards drums, at 52kg each.

Capt Long explained that the silver drums are priceless.

“The silver was taken at some point after the American Revolution, then the cast was broken. For this reason they are irreplaceable,” he said.

Capt Long added that all the soldiers taking part in the Household Cavalry musical ride are operational, adding: “It’s the only regiment in the world with soldiers that do both roles; ceremonial and operational. On Monday, it’s very likely these soldiers will be outside Horse Guards Parade acting as the sovereign’s bodyguards.

“They all enjoy doing this, and I think the horses do too, including Perseus, and I think he’ll enjoy it more as he gets used to it. He just wants to get out there and show off.”

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Tickets for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee go on sale at midday today (22 September). The celebration, titled “A Gallop through History”, will take place in the grounds of Windsor Castle on 12-15 May 2022.

At an event organised at The Royal Mews in London to launch the celebration, Sir Mike Rake, chairman of the advisory committee, promised “a celebration the likes of which will not be seen for generations”.

More than 500 horses and 1,000 performers will create a 90-minute piece of arena theatre, which will take the audience on a gallop through history from Elizabeth I to the present day.

The celebration’s director and producer, Simon Brooks-Ward, said: “Without giving too much away at this early stage, we have secured some of the best equestrian, military and musical displays from here and around the world to feature in this huge production.

“After the two years we have had, this will be joyful and humorous with fun aspects, while also being respectful and traditional.”

Platinum Jubilee: equestrian talent on show

Little has been confirmed about the participants, but Mr Brooks-Ward hinted at some of the equestrian talent, which will include acts performed by the Household Cavalry and the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery.

“We include nearly all Her Majesty’s show ponies and horses, and The Royal Mews will play a big part,” he said. “Her Majesty wants to know exactly what is going to go on, but she trusts us to produce something appropriate. She is informed at all times, and obviously we will include any personal requests.”

At The Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebration, which won a BAFTA for the Best Live Event in 2016, the organisers did manage to keep one secret back – the participation of the Princess Royal and her daughter Zara Tindall, Prince Edward and his daughter Lady Louise, who rode in the gala. It is expected that there will be some family participation in next year’s event too.

Charities set to benefit from fundraising target

The Platinum Jubilee will not only be a majestic celebration. There is a big emphasis on raising money for charity. The 90th birthday gala raised £1.2million, and the organisers are bidding to surpass that target. Several equestrian charities featured among the 2016 recipients, including the Fell Pony Society.

“The little charities are just as important, and these funds can make a big difference,” said Mr Brooks-Ward. “The Fell Pony Society was able to use the money raised to buy a field in Cumbria to help improve this rare breed.”

For horse lovers, the “Gallop through History” will be the highlight of the Jubilee celebrations, however the nation’s official four-day holiday weekend will take place after this event, on 2-5 June.

“We have always been the forerunner for the official weekend, the warm-up event,” said Mr Brooks-Ward, who will be at the helm for his fourth big celebration extravaganza, stretching back to 2002.

The show will be performed live to an audience of over 5,000 on each of the four nights, and ITV and the ITV Hub will broadcast the event to the nation on Sunday, 15 May.

Tickets are on sale from 12pm on 22 September, with further information available at platinumjubilee.com. Ticket purchasers may also book through the Windsor Information Centre, either by visiting the Centre in person or online at http://tickets.windsor.gov.uk.

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A Cavalry Black charger who has “never faltered” has retired to enjoy her twilight years at the Horse Trust after 18 years of service.

Irish sport horse Empress joined the Household Cavalry in Windsor in June 2003 as Remount 8100 with a “fantastic blend of attitude, willingness to please and a quiet competence”.

She quickly became a favourite of the officers and new recruits.

She passed out in June 2004 and has enjoyed a distinguished and carried career, spending a long stint training new riders in Windsor, serving as a standard horse, carrying the regimental flag, and as an officer’s charger.

She had a leading role in Prince Harry and Prince William’s weddings and served on most state visits and all The Queen’s birthday parades.

“She has had an impressive and varied career and never, ever faltered,” said Captain Skip Nicholls, riding master at the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

“I will miss everything about her, her nature, her kisses. If you want a horse that can carry an officer and sit at the front of any parade that you’ve not done before then she’s the horse you’d always turn to, to lead that parade. We’ll all miss her.”

He added: “The Horse Trust takes about 25 horses a year from the police and the army. They take our oldest, our boldest and those dearest to our hearts.

“We know the Horse Trust has the best horse care and attention possible: 24/7 on-hand veterinary care, a fantastic equine facility, fantastic grazing, and a first-class team to look after our animals till the end of their lives. But best of all we can go and visit them after they’ve retired, which is something we can’t do when they go to private hands.

“When she sees the fields she’ll instantly relax. There’s quite a few horses there she’ll recognise by smell, they’ll have the odd whinny, and it won’t be too long before she realises she’s home.“

The Horse Trust chief executive Jeanette Allen added: “Working horses today are the equine equivalent of the civil servant.

“Seventy-five per cent come from government jobs, working with the police or the military, having been owned by the state. But unlike civil servants they don’t get a pension when they retire so we step forward and offer these remarkable animals the retirement they deserve. It’s like the Royal Hospital Chelsea for army horses.

“They come to us shiny, well behaved, immaculate, beautiful and glistening, but as a retired veteran she’ll soon be woolly, muddy, and silly, a real natural horse again. It’s so lovely to see them gradually realise that they’re not working any more and that nothing is expected of them.”

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In 2018 the decision was made to lessen Empress’s workload and she has spent the last three years as a mount for the foot guards officers of the Household Division.

At the end of her final parade, she was walked forward to stand alone in front of Major General Chris Ghika, commanding the Household Division.

Her polished kit was removed and Captain Edward Keith, adjutant at Knightsbridge Barracks, read out her citation.

“Empress has given the last 18 years of her life to the Household Cavalry, so it is fitting that as a 22-year-old horse she retires to the glorious 280 acres in Buckinghamshire that the Horse Trust offers, to be cared for there by former riding master Mark Avison and former regimental veterinary officer Nicola Houseby-Skeggs,” he said.

“She will also no doubt enjoy the company of her 37 former colleagues who live there, including two of her equine peers Burnaby and Elizabeth. We thank Empress for her service and all she has done for the regiment which has firmly solidified her place in the Household Cavalry Hall of Fame.”

Her shoes were removed and after final hugs from her groom and pats from the officers and troopers, she started on her journey to the Horse Trust.

She has already settled in and has formed a “close bond” with fellow military retirees Yeti and Union and is already a firm favourite with the grooms.

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The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment has passed its “searing quality control” annual inspection ahead of The Queen’s birthday parade (12 June).

The Major General’s annual inspection is the “ultimate test” for the ceremonial unit, which they must pass in order to participate in state ceremonial duties.

The rigorous inspection of horsemanship, turnout and state ceremonial uniform was conducted by Major General Chris Ghika, the general officer commanding London District and commanding officer of the Household Division.

“The iconic image of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment escorting the sovereign represents the best of British pageantry to the world so there was no room for compromise; nothing short of excellence would do,” said a Household Cavalry spokesman.

“With the eyes of the world constantly on them, a searing annual quality control check is a challenging but welcome validation for these military perfectionists.

“Troopers had prepared for weeks to perfect their skills, poise and appearance; hours of polishing and minute attention to detail had been invested in ensuring horses, swords and breastplates dazzled as their mirror surfaces reflected the light.”

Around 170 horses and soldiers from Knightsbridge Barracks headed to the “football pitch” area of Hyde Park to form up, ready for inspection, yesterday (3 June). They were accompanied by the mounted band of the Household Cavalry, with their “magnificent” drum horses.

The Maj Gen and his horse, Atticus, rode through the ranks, checking every trooper and cavalry horse, before taking his position at the inspection site.

The regiment then filed past him in walk and trot, to replicate The Queen’s birthday parade. They also demonstrated a “captain’s escort” (without standard) as a further demonstration of the regiment’s capabilities and skills.

Commanding officer of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Tom Armitage from the Life Guards, said: “It is a great honour to carry out these duties and the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment have worked tirelessly to ensure they are able to meet the high standard required.”

The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment is a regular sight at Trooping the Colour, escorting and protecting on her journey from Buckingham Palace to inspect the parade of Foot Guards on Horse Guards Parade.

The parade was cancelled in 2020, owing to the pandemic, and restrictions mean that a “refined parade” will take place this year at Windsor Castle on 12 June.

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The Household Cavalry is made up of the two most senior regiments in the British Army, The Life Guards and The Blues & Royals.

It is divided into the operationally focused Household Cavalry Regiment based in Bulford, Wiltshire and the ceremonial Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment in Knightsbridge, London, with soldiers moving between the two.

“Strong in will; to strive, to seek, to find and not to yield, the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment are the nation’s trusted guardians and, as of today, officially the smartest,” added the spokesman.

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Breeders said an “emotional goodbye” to a Shire mare this week as she headed to the Household Cavalry to become the regiment’s first female drum horse.

Dyfed Shire Horses’s homebred Willa Rose was collected by the Household Cavalry on 11 May to begin her two-year training. The eight-year-old 18.3hh mare will be reunited with her former “farm friend” Ed, who joined the regiment in January 2020. The farm also sold Dyfed Grey Celt to the Household Cavalry in 2008.

Dyfed Shire Horses owner Huw Murphy told H&H it was a “source of pride and a privilege” to have bred a horse deemed “good enough” for the role of drum horse with the cavalry. The mare’s sire Dyfed JR also has a military career, having been sold to the Royal Cavalry in Oman in 2017.

“Willa Rose is the first female Shire to be taken by the Household Cavalry for this role which is quite an achievement,” said Huw. “I think the fact we supplied them with two good geldings meant they were prepared to take the chance on a mare.

“She is fully broken to ride and drive and has been working on the farm since she was three. She’s a very willing horse, with a docile quiet nature.”

Huw, who currently owns nine Shires, said Willa Rose will be missed.

“It was very emotional seeing her go but we know she’ll have a wonderful home and be looked after in fantastic facilities,” he said.

“We know that whatever the outcome, she’ll return to the farm at some point; be it retirement at the end of service or if in the unlikely event she’s deemed not suitable she’ll return to us for farm work – but I’m confident she’ll make the grade.”

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Huw has previously been to London to visit the barracks at Knightsbridge and attended the ceremonial Trooping of the Colour of which Dyfed Grey Celt (now known as Major Mercury) has participated in on multiple occasions.

“The Household Cavalry have been very supportive and they’ve agreed to deploy a drum horse to the farm for an official visit in August, when he will parade in full uniform so we are looking forward to that.”

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Three equine heroes have been immortalised in a painting commissioned to celebrate the 135th birthday of the Horse Trust, the world’s oldest equine charity.

Horse Trust Legends features the heads of three of the Buckinghamshire centre’s most famous residents — the late Sefton, the British Army horse who suffered horrific shrapnel injuries in the 1982 Hyde Park bombing, Met Police horse Boris, who was awarded the PDSA’s order of merit for bravery during the 2011 Tottenham riots and Viscount, the longest-serving military horse in history.

The painting has been created by former Derbyshire police officer Sarah Perkins, who is now an artist specialising in animals.

The Horse Trust, which was founded in 1886, provides retirement and respite care for horses and ponies that have served in the armed forces and police, making it a cause close to Sarah’s heart.

“I’m thrilled to have been commissioned to create such a meaningful piece of art for the Horse Trust. After serving in the police for over 20 years, I know just how vital horses are to the force, so I’m excited to be honouring them within this piece and helping to raise money for a very special cause,” Sarah said.

The painter created a Christmas card for the Blues and Royals Association in 2020 which sold more than 11,000 copies and raised £6,000.

Limited edition prints of Horse Trust Legends and the artwork itself will be available to buy, with a percentage of proceeds going to the charity.

Alice Morgan, director of fundraising at The Horse Trust, said: “We’re delighted to have Sarah creating our ‘Horse Trust Legends’ artwork for our 135th anniversary.

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“We work hard to make sure that our hardworking equine public servants are well looked after in their retirement, and the funds raised from this will help us to continue our work.”

The original artwork (measuring 61cm x 45cm) is available from www.sarahperkinsart.co.uk/product-category/original-art with 25% of profits being donated to The Horse Trust.

The limited edition prints of the piece can be bought from www.horsetrust.org.uk. There are 250 prints available, in both A4 and A3, priced from £49.50.

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A police horse once ridden by Charlotte Dujardin, and a horse who saved the lives of “countless” others at a vet school, have retired to the Horse Trust.

The Buckinghamshire-based charity welcomed the two “black beauties” – 19-year-old police horse Normandy and 11-year-old vet school teaching horse Mayo – last week.

A spokesman for the Horse Trust said Normandy, a 16.2hh Oldenberg gelding, was known for being “sweet and easy-going” during his 15 years with the Metropolitan Police.

“His duties included patrolling on state visits and the state opening of Parliament as well as taking part in Trooping the Colour, the Changing of the Guards,” he said.

“His main claim to fame is that he was ridden by the one and only Charlotte Dujardin when she came to visit the police stables.”

The spokesman said Irish sports horse Mayo had an “interesting life” beginning his career as a six-year-old in 2015 with the Defence Animal Training Regiment. The 17hh gelding had been due to undertake training towards becoming a cavalry horse, but was later diagnosed with kissing spines. While the gelding received treatment, it was deemed he was not fit enough to continue his training.

“Being such a lovely boy, the decision was made to send Mayo to Bristol Vet School in 2018, where he could be retired from ridden work but was still able to enjoy a number of years helping vet students learn the ropes on a real horse,” said the spokesman.

“As well as this Mayo saved the lives of horses who needed urgent blood transfusions following injury or illness. Without Mayo on hand to donate, these poor horses would certainly have died. This beautiful boy well and truly deserves his retirement.”

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Horse Trust chief executive Jeanette Allen told H&H the charity is “delighted” to welcome two more “heroic” public servants that have assisted with very worthy causes in such different ways.

“We can’t wait to see Normandy meet up with his old work mates that have already retired to us including Gawain, Kathleen and superstar Boris,” she said.

“We are also very proud to be retiring Mayo, who has saved countless lives throughout his career, from his blood donations. We can’t wait to see these two settle into their retirements with us.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now